measuring for initial cycle. Help

[bosco0633]

I measured the basics yesterday in the aquarium. I set up on Saturday and on Sunday morning the amonia level was between 2.0ppm and 2.5ppm. The only thing in the tank was two dead shrimp from the grocery store.
On Tuesday I added 75lbs. of live rock and by the end of the night, the amonia was still between 2.0 and 2.5ppm.
On Wednesday night I measured the following, however, I feel that the measurements just dont sound right. Any input
Amonia 1.0 to 1.5
Ph 8.4 to 8.8
Nitrite 0
Nitrate 5 to 10
is this sound right to anyone. This is my first time actually measuring levels in a tank. Can there be nitrates without nitrites and with amonia. Im so confused, also the ph is to high, ideal conditions is 8.2 so should I drop it down with a buffer or should I just wait until the amonia is down, the test kit says the cycle effects ph levels. Please reply thank you for your time

 

[susiepan]

Your measurments are going to be ALL over the place for at least a good week-two...maybe even 4-6,,,Keep taking your tests everyday/other day and keep a log..
Also you bring UP PH by adding a buffer..not bring it down..
Ammonia you can bring down with dextox/but that might give you a false/positive reading on your tests...
Have patience and it will start to even out...
~Susie

 

[ren]

Ammolock and detox won't bring down ammonia but rather change the chemistry to where it isn't leathal to inhabitants.
On the Ph - I had OD'd with a buffer and skyrocketed my Ph. Check your Alk - I would immagine its high as well. The only way to correct this is with waterchanges. I'm thinking at this point you need to start changing water till Ph and Alk are in check. Then start the cycle - what size tank? I used 4 of the large shrimp in a 54gl.