Nitrate drops?

[Siejuban]

My tank just set up for 9 days, yesterday the test result is: Ammonia ~ 0.06ppm, Nitrite ~0ppm, Nitrate ~1-2ppm.

 

The nitrate was 4-5ppm 2days ago, and it drops to 1-2 ppm, is this normal?

[Bikelock]

I have the same tank and it is 11 days old.

 

The same thing happened to mine.

 

I think this is normal. The amonia goes up then the Nitrite goes up, then the Ammonia goes down, then the Nitrate goes up as the Nitrite goes down, then finally the Nitrate goes down, Equilibrium has occured. And then I the trick is to keep it there.

 

By the way what light set up do you have on that tank. Is it a retro into the stock hood, and if so what retro are you using.

[Siejuban]

I use the complete hood from CSL, 2x32w 1000k and ultra actinic, but mostly I turn on the 1000k bulb, leave the actinic off, since no coral yet.

 

Today, my check of the testing is:

nitrate dropped to 0ppm, ammonia ~ 0.04ppm, nitrite=0ppm

 

Is that a sign of cycled? and can I add cleaning crew now?

[Bikelock]

I believe you've cycled, and I think mine is too.

 

I have a blue legged hermit in mine just to keep any alge bloom in check. I will be adding more this weekend. A couple of snails and a Red legged Hermit. I am going to wait 2 more weeks before adding anything more difficult to ensure my tank skills are up to the challange.

 

Does any body know if a 20% water change would be good now for both Siejuban and Me.

 

Thanks for the light info.

[drdrew]

as long as you are showing any ammonia or nitrite you are not cycled.

[Bikelock]

Sorry read it wrong I thought Ammonia was o.oo ppm.

 

Siejuban see this post

 

http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/showthread...&threadid=17654