super high ammonia

[pipaloo]

For about two weeks now my ammonia has been in the 3-4 range on a FasTest. I know this because i called the company to find out what it meant when the tester turned from green to blue. Anyway, I have bought new test powders and have the same results. After extensive investigation and water changes, I have come to the conclusion that there is the possibility that something in my tap water or tank is interfering with the chemistry of the test. Afterall, my fish are fine when they should be dying in this toxic environment. I have been in the hobby for many years and have tried all of the obvious methods for lowering the ammonia, but it is just starting to make more sense that my ammonia is not really this high, given the health of my fish during this time. By the way, my PH, nitrite and nitrate are all perfect.

 

[exile415]

your probably .. cycling

 

[beth]

How old is your tank? Did the ammonia suddenly happen or gradually raise? Test your source water and see what readings you get.

 

[pipaloo]

I've considered the fact that the tank could be cycling, but I cannot imagine why. The tank has been set up for 5 years and is fish only, no live rock. I don't ever remember seeing a a blue reading on this test during any cycle on any tank that I've ever had. If it is recycling for some reason, do I just have to wait it out and hope no fish die? Or should I take some proactive approach?

 

[pipaloo]

by the way, i've been using a poly filter for the past two days and it is not turning the yellow green color that you would suspect if it was absorbing ammonia.

 

[beth]

You want to answer my questions? A 5 yr old tank is not going to cycle. Something is wrong, or the testing is wrong.