plcd22

Here is my latest reading and just wondering if it is ready for fish yet?

nitrate - 10
nitrite - 2.0
Hardness (GH) - 80
alkalinity (KH) - 50
pH - 7.0

is this good bad etc? From the test kit it says that these are all "middle of the road" readings and it appears to be OK! But I wanted your EXPERT advice before I started adding fishys


Thanks in advace!

sirdarksol

Nope. As long as you have any reading in ammonia (don't see that on the list, but it's really important to test for it) or nitrites, it's stressful for the fish. Still, you're getting some nitrate readings, so you're likely getting close.

plcd22

how do the rest of the numbers look? are they inline? or out of wack?

Shawnie

whats the ammonia reading? it looks like its getting there as sds said but not ready for fish ...what are you using to cycle with? your info says a week and I was curious where you already have nitrates..

plcd22

just changed the time frame of the tank. I have used some AmQuel+ maybe that has helped...

Shawnie

amquel detoxifies but doesnt remove per say....do you have an ammonia test kit? this product is very iffy in the fishie world as it states less water changes if not any are ok when using this product..but I think its ok as a conditioner ....now if someone tells me that I never have to flush my toilet because I pour this in, im thinking they is nutso ! LOL

plcd22

lol yeah that would be iffy! So AmQuel+ is just a conditioner? and no i guess i don't have an amonia test kit that stinks now i have to get one of those too... well maybe someday I will not use all my on supplies and be able to get Better to be safe than sorry i guess

Shawnie

I know supplies are almost as much as the fish themselves..but well worth it if you are into the hobby

the API master liquid test kit is what alot of us use as its very accurate and has everything you need to keep the tank and its readings in check....that way you never have to rely on anyone telling you what the readings are

plcd22

thanks for the tip on the kit to use! I checked at Pets Mart for it last night but they didn't have it! I will check at a REAL Aquatics store... maybe tomorrow (RMS Aquatics). I also got some live plant bulbs the other day that say "drop them in and watch it grow." two lilies (floaters) and seven others that I can't remember their names off hand (sorta planted them in the rocks). they also have a 30 day guarentee (if in 30days they haven't sprouted simply send it back and we will send you a new bulb.) so we will see!

plcd22

just an update and question! I still don't have an amonia tester so I checked and double checked all the readings that I do have and they all seemed fine and good. are neon tetras are hardy fish or weak and finicy?

so just thought I would give you that update and pick your brains as the experts! thanks in advance again

also my plant bulbs that I added about 1-2 weeks ago are growing great and 3 of the 7 are doing wonderful and the other have yet to sprout

Lucy

Until you know you're readings it wouldn't be responsible of us to say it's ok to get more fish.

Neons aren't as hardy as they once were. In fact no fish should be subjected to a cycling tank no matter how hardy they are. The effects of toxins in the water aren't only visible to the eye. They effect the fish's immune system making them more susceptible to disease.

Shawnie

why would you buy fish without knowing ammonia? do not add anymore and you will probably need some prime or stress coat + to get these fish through the cycle without them dieing...I wish you well but I have no more advice someone else may have more info for you to succeed with this adventure