Nitrite

Discussion in 'Water Chemistry' started by KDtrey5, Jul 10, 2012.

to remove this notice and enjoy 3reef content with less ads. 3reef membership is free.

  1. KDtrey5

    KDtrey5 Coral Banded Shrimp

    Joined:
    Jun 29, 2012
    Messages:
    388
    Location:
    Green Bay, WI
    I have just hit my third week in the cycling process! My ammonia has been at zero for about a week. My nitrites have been at 5... for about a week... :confused: and my nitrates were at twenty, 3 days and they are now 40! How long will this nitrite spike last? How long has it lasted for you guys? I know I have to be patient and all but I am just curious.:p
     
    KDtrey5, Jul 10, 2012
    KDtrey5, Jul 10, 2012
    #1

    2. Click Here!

  2. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

    Joined:
    Aug 6, 2009
    Messages:
    19,258
    Location:
    Sparks, NV
    Nitrite spikes can last into the 4th week of your cycle or longer if they get too high and inhibit the growth of the bacteria that feeds on them.
     
    2in10, Jul 10, 2012
    2in10, Jul 10, 2012
    #2
  3. KDtrey5

    KDtrey5 Coral Banded Shrimp

    Joined:
    Jun 29, 2012
    Messages:
    388
    Location:
    Green Bay, WI
    Should I just wait it out or should I do a water change?
     
    KDtrey5, Jul 10, 2012
    KDtrey5, Jul 10, 2012
    #3
  4. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Apr 30, 2009
    Messages:
    4,551
    Location:
    Florida
    Patience. Removing water and diluting nitrite will inhibit the point of the cycle; to develop a colony of bacteria capable of turning nitrite into nitrate.
     
    Kevin_E, Jul 10, 2012
    Kevin_E, Jul 10, 2012
    #4
  5. missionsix

    missionsix Super Moderator Staff Member

    Joined:
    Sep 25, 2007
    Messages:
    5,734
    Location:
    Bend,Oregon - USA
    missionsix, Jul 10, 2012
    missionsix, Jul 10, 2012
    #5