Another Cycle Question

[kleinn]

My 20H has been running for 11 days with 27lbs LR and 20lbs of LS. I have had a blue damsel in it for 8 days, and prior to that I fed the tank frozen brine shrimp for 3 days. I have a Penguin 125 power filter w/ bio wheel that has been running since day 1. I have tested most days, but became suspicious of my old dry-tab kit a couple days ago, so I began testing with a new Mydor test kit.

The damsel was showing signs of stress about four days ago, but is looking good now. My ammonia level tested at almost zero, it was slightly higher yesterday, and my 'trates test at less than 20ppm, and I didn't get any 'trites. Can this be right? Does that mean the tank cycled already or could my ammonia still be on the way up? I'm in no rush, I'm just trying to understand what's going on in that little world. :thinking:

 

[bang guy]

If your fish is looking stressed I'd recommend a large water change. Somewhere between 25 & 50%.
Do you have more water circulation other than the bio-wheel?

 

[kleinn]

The damsel WAS stressed a few days ago (which makes me suspect the ammonia has already spiked), but has been doing well for the past couple days - eating well, very active, no signs of respiration problems, etc. And yes, I have more flow than just what the power filter provides. My question is more about where in the cycle my tank might be.

 

[amphibious]

kleinn,
It's possible with the LR and LS in there from day one but, not probable. I'd be patient and test for awhile until you are sure.
I don't know who to give tribute too for this quote, "The only thing that happens quickly in a saltwater tank is disaster." It is so true. Error on the side of caution. It's easier on the wallet.

 

[kleinn]

Sounds like sage advice, Amphibious.

Thanks. I brought the LR right home from the LFS (about 5 minutes from my house), where it was in a 6 year old display tank, so it is interesting to hear that that could be the case. That's a great quote, and I'll definetely wait and test for a few more days before I order any cleaning crew. :happyfish