Nitrates

AdamG280 · Apr 5, 2025

So I’ve been cycling my tank with fish and a coral and adding nitrifying bacteria for 8 weeks now. I tested the ammonia: 0, tested the nitrites: 0, but my nitrates also look like 0. Granted, I’m using the API tests with the test tubes and I have a Hanna nitrate tester coming today, but I kind of want to put in some macroalgae. How long do you think it will take to build up some nitrates to support that?

jabberwock · Apr 10, 2025

CHSUB said:
Why?

Stick your head in a bucket of ammonia and see how it feels.

CHSUB · Apr 10, 2025

jabberwock said:
Stick your head in a bucket of ammonia and see how it feels.

So ammonia is your “soap box” argument to criticize others? You and your pal have all the answers and are the ultimate stewards of the hobby? Here is an example, “Well there are those in the hobby and then there are true hobbyists who put the well being of their aquatic animals as a "necessary " high priority.” Guessing a true hobbyist might understand that a WC could easily keep ammonia levels acceptable for fish during a cycle. When someone speaks about absolutes in this hobby their advice is best discarded. I can easily and safely do a fish in cycle and remember while you’re give your altruistic advice, many believe the entire hobby is cruel. Here is and example of what it takes to get a fish in your aquarium….

jabberwock · Apr 10, 2025

CHSUB said:
So ammonia is your “soap box” argument to criticize others? You and your pal have all the answers and are the ultimate stewards of the hobby? Here is an example, “Well there are those in the hobby and then there are true hobbyists who put the well being of their aquatic animals as a "necessary " high priority.” Guessing a true hobbyist might understand that a WC could easily keep ammonia levels acceptable for fish during a cycle. When someone speaks about absolutes in this hobby their advice is best discarded. I can easily and safely do a fish in cycle and remember while you’re give your altruistic advice, many believe the entire hobby is cruel. Here is and example of what it takes to get a fish in your aquarium….

Thanks. Enjoy your journey.