Cycling my 15g tank

[Jordb03]

Just started a fishless cycle in my tank last Friday (6/12), I added Dr. Tims one and only and a pinch of food. I waited 3 days and tested for ammonia and nitrite with my API kit and the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels all came out to 0 ppm. Do I need to be more patient for those parameters to spike or what next steps should I take?

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

I would wait more, it takes time for flake/pellet food to break down and show as ammonia. And depending how big or small the pinch is compared to the water volume, it might not be enough. Straight up ammonia is best, or a piece of shrimp.

 

[Jordb03]

I have a 15 gallon tank.

 

[MC Blowfish]

It takes time for the bacteria to kick in. Like what was said above me. You can use a piece of shrimp to help.

 

[Gumbies R Us]

I would just be patient!

 

[Fish Fan]

You need to get the ammonia concentration up to about 2.0 ppm to start your cycle (which will take about 3 weeks, give or take). Adding a small amount of fish food doesn't usually do it, you have to add quite a lot of fish food, a piece of shrimp from the seafood market, or use ammonium chloride from Dr. Tim's or Fritz (Fishless Fuel) to kick start the cycle.

Good luck!

 

[Jordb03]

Thank you all for the input. I appreciate it!