nitrite level?

[cope787]

my tank has been up for about 3 weeks and the nitrite level is a little high. is this normal for a new setup? will it eventually decline after a little while?
55g
25 lbs LR
1 tomatoe clown
2 damsels
1 cleaner shrimp
some crabs and snails
sand sifting star

 

[bdhough]

Yes its normal. You are more than likely cycleing your tank. While i never had issues with harmful levels during my two setups it is something that always has to be taken into consideration. Ideally you shouldn't add anything "valuable" for at least 4 weeks. Let your cycle finish before you buy anything more. You seem to be in the middle of one. Your rock should clear it up in 2 weeks or so. But keep an eye on your fish. Nitrites kill as does Ammonia.