jase1

hi there
I think my tank is entering its final stages of cycling ( ammonia .25,nitrites 0, nitrates 0-5ppm) as the tests are gradually reducing with my water changes. I have been feeding the fish just the once daily to try and help with the cycling. Does this seem cruel?
Anyway what i really would like to know is how many more fish i can add to my 120litre tank? And anybody any suggestions as to what i could add.
6 platys
4 rummy nosed tetras
5 neon tetras

thanks

Shawnie

Hi jase...your tank isnt in the final stages yet

Ammonia turns to nitrites, then nitrites to nitrates, so you still are in the beginning stages...how long have you been doing it? and have you tested your tap water? sometimes our tap water has nitrates to begin with...but you still have to get to the nitrite stage then nitrates..and you havent yet....so daily water changes and treat the tap water with a conditioner, and your fishies will be ok ...

I wouldnt stock anymore fish until the cycle is complete...patience is something we all have learned while cycleing with fish..its tough, but not impossible

COBettaCouple

Are you testing before or after the daily water change?

HatchetHaven

If I where you - I would remove the male Platy. If you let them breed - hey will overstock your tank like mad! So ,that would be 5 Platys. Up the rummy nose school to 6, and up the Neon school to 8. That would be a lovely, active and colourful community!

jase1

testing before and after CO!
thanx for your replies and advice

HatchetHaven

What are you planning to do, now we have 'enlightened' you?

Lucy

I read that wrong, I was thinking what is CO and why are you adding it! lol

As long as you're having ammonia and/or nitrites readings you should still be doing daily water changes until your cycle is complete. (0 for both ammonia & nitrites with some nitrates showing)

Good luck.

HatchetHaven

CO is probably refering to COBettaCouple - AKA Dave and Stacy.

Lucy

lol, Yeah, got that.

COBettaCouple

You could probably test just before. It's best to wait 24-48 hours after a water change, when possible, to get accurate results.

jase1

hi all
thanx again for all your advice!
all is has been taken on board (i hope)
will let you know of the outcome from your words of wisdom

thanx again