Nemo2

I just upgraded from a 15 to a 30 gallon freswater tank. I have three priscilla tetras, two clown loaches and an algae eater, I don't know what kind he is.

It has been set up for 1 month now and I have been testing the water regularly. ammonia is b/w 1 and 2 PPM, 0 nitrite, 20 ppm ntrates, pH - 6.0.

I added 2 pieces of driftwood when I set it up, which is what I attribute the low pH to. I also used Stability. This does not seem to be a normal cycle to me. This is also going to be a planted tank, I added a few plants. I have not done any water changes.
For filtration I have, 2 powerheads with my under gravel filter, and a Penguin Bio-wheel 300. I also have one airstone. does anyone have any advice?

MissMTS

Are you using dechlorinator in your water? A lot of cities put ammonia in the water to sterelize it (mine does). This could be giving you an ammonia reading. The dechlorinator is supposed to bind up the ammonia. BTW, I used stability and it didn't work great for me. Try Bio-Spira. If you do a huge water change and add it to your aquarium, your tank should cycle in a matter of days. Don't use stability with it though.

Nemo2

I am, I used Prime when I set up, and I have also used it off and on for ammonia and nitrate puposes. I tested my tap water for all three, and then tested my tank water to make sure my tap water wasn't the source. I just don't understand why my nitrates are high, and my my ammonia, but no trites? WHere are the trates coming from if my tank is not cycled yet?

sirdarksol

Another question would be "What dechlorinator are you using?" There are a few dechlorinators that actually mess with ammonia readings.
Other than that, I'm not sure.

Nemo2

Prime, by Seachem.

sirdarksol

Hmmmm....
That shouldn't be an issue.
Next question. What are you using for a test?

Nemo2

sirdarksol

Sure, just take every easy answer away from me...
Sorry. I can't think of anything that would leave you with ammonia and nitrates but no nitrites, other than human error. (not saying there isn't anything, just that I can't think of it)

Nemo2

You are no help! just kidding. Thank you anyways for your input.