How often does the cycle happen?

[jared]

It seems as thought the cycle of trItes, trAtes, and ammonia stop after the first few weeks of setting up the tank. Does it really ever stop? I can't figure out the details. I did a search and still can't quite crack this nut.

 

[jerseysaltwater]

everytime a bioload is added to the tank (more ammonia), then more nitrifying bacteria need to be created to process it. this is why we add things to our tanks slowly. if a new addition causesan ammonia spike, it will start a "mini cycle", while all of the new bacteria are catching up to get to equilibrium again. so just as the initial cycle is started with a bioload (live rock, uncooked cocktail shrimp), each addition does the same.

 

[broomer5]

The way I understand it ..... as long as there's ammonia being produced through animal wastes - and the bacteria are present and alive - the nitrogen cycle does not end.
It's a cycle, or at least a partial cycle - depending on whether the nitrate is recycled bact to nitrogen gas.
When we first set up the tank - we call it cycling - but I suppose the term could be called "initial cycling" the tank.
It better not end or we're all in trouble :nervous: