My cycle is going faaaast!

I'm going to the lfs tomorrow to have them test it with there salfert tests.

 

This is a very awkward cycle. Ammo trites and trates at the same time... Is this a quick soft cycle?

 

Should be interesting to see their results.

 

I would say that it is normal though. You have high nitrites to take care of the ammonia and then your nitrates are building up to take care of your nitrites. I guess it could be going fast, but I doubt it lol.

 

I wouldnt use a fresh/saltwater test kit. I would use strictly saltwater test kits. they are more accurate. use salifert or ELOS. also I agree with the above posts a week in, you are just beginning to see AM and trites/trates you are no where near cycled, especially with all dry rock and no live rock to see it or boost the cycling process. you will need AT LEAST 3 more weeks. I have seen some people cycle with all dry rock for up to 6 weeks. you know the rules, PATIENCE young grass hopper, you have a long way to go.

 

Haha patience I will. And it's an API saltwater test kit.

 

A Soft Cycle, is typically when you do small water changes through out what would be considered the cycle period. You do so to prevent ammonia spikes that would otherwise kill some inverts and algae on live uncured rock. You are trying to preserve all the cool sponges and critters that can come with quality cured rock.

 

Ahh I see. so to summarize its just a fast beginning to a long cycle...?

 

Yeah you could look at it that way to a degree, but remember you are starting off with quality uncured live rock that if handled right should have a significant amount of beneficial bacteria present. Since it's fresh uncured live rock you will also have a significant amount of die off. It's is kind of a trade off..

This method is used by experienced hobbyist with live cured rock and dry rock as well.

 

ok, i went to my lfs and they tested my water with sailfert test kits. my ammonia has dropped to .25 and my nitrites are at 1. according to him my cycle is about a week away from being done...