yeah, i just tested my 3g which i've dosed clear ammonia to for the 2nd time and API says 4.0+, hagen says 2.4. but regaurdless kashta, do't you think i would have seen nitrites by now at least? (started the cycle exactly a month ago.. dec 8th i believe.
Yes, absolutely. Whether you have fish in there or are doing this fishless, for the cycle to be complete... you still go through the exact same progression. High Ammonia with one or more spikes - followed by high readings on Nitrites as the Ammonia decreases - followed by traces of Nitrates (beyond what comes from the tap) - which eventually leads to no Ammonia or Nitrites and higher levels of Nitrate. The final stage concludes as a self-sustaining, well established balance. And as long as we don't overstock or overfeed and we do our regular water changes to clear out the Nitrates.. it stays cycled.
But look at the timing. You've been doing this for a month and it takes a good 6-8 weeks to cycle a tank. Yes, you've done a lot to speed up the process, but you're also doing this with fish.. and that makes it way less predictable and lengthens the process even more. (As you've seen all along.)
To protect the fish, you need to do constant water changes. You wouldn't have to do that so much without them. As I've followed this thread, I've been tempted to tell you a few times to stop testing it every day. Leave it alone and let it run it's course. That old saying that a watched pot never boils. Every time you change something or stick your fingers in there, something else is effected by it. And the more you monitor it and fuss over and try this suggestion and that one.. the more you correct and overcorrect things. It slows everything down and it drives you nuts.. at least it does me. I know you can't just leave it alone and let it go because of the fish. And you're doing such a diligent job taking care of them. So I haven't said anything.. just kept watching and hoping it'll cycle completely soon.
Years ago, I went through something like this with a large tank full of fish and no information at all about the nitrogen cycle. The only advice I had to go on was an idiotic pet store who kept selling me things to clear up cloudy water and pads to remove ammonia. This went on for months and I lost so many fish, I just sat there and cried. It really tears us up going through that. And I really feel for you with all the work.. the money.. and the frustration I see you going through.
Just remember.. no matter what you do, this will end. And everything will be perfect. Please don't let it discourage you at all.
