Cycling Discussion
@slin1977 Okay, let's get this thing going!
This is for slin1977 and I to discuss this thing, without derailing anymore topics. I guess others can chime in, but let's establish a few things:
1.) Please read all the discussion before commenting.
2.) Please stay on topic.
3.) Let's not get rowdy. The moment someone gets rowdy it's sorta pointless...
This is in hopes that just discussions to be had.
So, to refresh our memories,
Let's start with a few definitions. In my opinion, the initial cycle is basically a microbial propagation phase, whereby we are trying to establish enough microbes to effectively deal with at least ammonia and nitrite (if not nitrate) when our tank is fully stocked, and beyond that in cases of any higher-than-normal parameter spikes for whatever reason (deaths, etc.). Do you agree? If not, what do you believe the initial cycle should achieve?
This is for slin1977 and I to discuss this thing, without derailing anymore topics. I guess others can chime in, but let's establish a few things:
1.) Please read all the discussion before commenting.
2.) Please stay on topic.
3.) Let's not get rowdy. The moment someone gets rowdy it's sorta pointless...
This is in hopes that just discussions to be had.
So, to refresh our memories,
The above is what I wrote. slin1977, you disagreed with the above (right?)Hey mate!
Once all the parameters you are aiming to get to zero hit zero, or close enough, you need to check that your aquarium is able to return to that state after a reasonable amount of time after each feeding.
To do this, well, you need to 'pretend' that you are feeding your livestock by well, 'feeding' the tank that much food (a daily amount), and see if the parameters can lower to zero (or close enough) within 24 hours. If it can, then that means that your aquarium has undergone the initial cycle. If it can't, it means that further cycling is necessary.
Once you are done with the cycle, I'd recommend a big water change - as large as you can make it. Things may have built up during the cycle that you can't test for, so a big water change is just a safe practice. Give your tank some freshness.
And once that is done, test parameters again to make sure everything is in place. Then stock your aquarium.
Let's start with a few definitions. In my opinion, the initial cycle is basically a microbial propagation phase, whereby we are trying to establish enough microbes to effectively deal with at least ammonia and nitrite (if not nitrate) when our tank is fully stocked, and beyond that in cases of any higher-than-normal parameter spikes for whatever reason (deaths, etc.). Do you agree? If not, what do you believe the initial cycle should achieve?