Step-by-Step Guide to Nitrogen Cycle Establishment

 

  1. Cycle Initiation
    • Add ammonia source (pure ammonia/fish food) to reach 2-4 ppm NH₃
    • Use API Quick Start or Dr. Tim's to seed beneficial bacteria
  2. Phase Monitoring

Week

Target Compound

Action Required

1

Ammonia (NH₃)

Test daily, maintain 1-2 ppm

2

Nitrite (NO₂⁻)

Partial water change if >0.5 ppm

3-4

Nitrate (NO₃⁻)

Ready for fish when NH₃/NO₂=0 ppm
  1. Bacterial Support
    • Maintain 25-28°C (optimal for nitrifying bacteria)
    • Provide 1 kg of biological media per 100L water

 

Common Issues & Solutions

  • Cloudy Water: Bacterial bloom - wait 7-10 days
  • Stalled Cycle: Increase aeration and add more bacteria
  • Algae Growth: Reduce light to 6 hours daily

 

Advanced Techniques

  • Denitrification: Use sulfur-based media in sump for NO₃ reduction
  • Live Plants: Add fast-growing species (e.g., Hornwort) to absorb NO₃