i tested for nitrite today and the test colour came out brown, this is the 4th day in a row.brown isnt even on the colour chart and shouldnt it be coming down because im doing a fishless cycle.the nitrite has already spiked and came down to 0 then it went bak to brown after like 2 days of being at 0.what could this be and what shoul i do?
nitrite test
- Thread starter wilson004
- Start date
I've not used that kit, but I gather that the colour chart is pink. I'm not sure what could be causing it to turn brown though. Especially in a fishless cycle, chemical input is fairly limited.
Have you brought a water sample into the lfs for a comparison test?
Try testing tap water as a blank.
Have you brought a water sample into the lfs for a comparison test?
Try testing tap water as a blank.
Well, what would be making it dirty? Didn't you say it was a fishless cycle? In other words, just adding ammonia?
If you were using something like cocktail shrimp or decaying matter as your ammonia source then it's conceivable (if not likely) that you've developed some anoxia and produced sulphide (H2S interferes with the NO2 test).
Try doing a big water change (~80%), redosing your ammonia and testing the N-species. If there was any sulphide the water change would clear it out. If it's something in the tank the reset will help too. Have you blank tested your kit against the tap?
If you were using something like cocktail shrimp or decaying matter as your ammonia source then it's conceivable (if not likely) that you've developed some anoxia and produced sulphide (H2S interferes with the NO2 test).
Try doing a big water change (~80%), redosing your ammonia and testing the N-species. If there was any sulphide the water change would clear it out. If it's something in the tank the reset will help too. Have you blank tested your kit against the tap?
Alright, next step. Take a sample to your lfs and ask them to test if for NO2. Most will be happy to oblige. If their kit turns brown, it's most likely something in your water and it's time for a massive water change (a la 100%). If theirs comes up with a sensible number, it's time to buy a new NO2 test kit.
What kind of water conditioner do you use? And is your test a nessler or salicate test? The reason I ask is that testing ammonia in water conditioned with Prime (or similar product) can cause a brown result with the nessler-based liquid ammonia tests (AP makes both nessler and salicate based liquid tests)...may be the same with the nitrite tests as well.