Hendryx

here are my findings..( I also posted this in my other thread but wanted to post it here as well to make sure everyone sees it) Tell me what you think, am I cycled?? is my tank now safe for Orandas??


pH-7.4
ammonia-0ppm
nitrite-0ppm
nitrate-10

Meenu

Those are the readings of a cycled tank. Did you end up getting the API kit, or a different brand?

Hendryx

Yep! I got the API......WooHoooo!

platyfish

Thats the best test kit!

Meenu

I think you are safe adding your 2 orandas. Just keep a close eye on things, and make sure you have some Prime on hand in case their is an ammonia spike. I know it has been a while since you had anything more than snails...

Hendryx

Yay!! one question though...what is prime? I was under the crazy asumption that if there was an ammonia spike I would just need to do water changes to bring it back to normal?? am I wrong?

Meenu

That's right, daily water changes. Prime is a water conditioner that removes chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals. In addition, it detoxifies ammonia and nitrites for 24 hours at a time. Bascially, it leaves the ammonia in the tank so you can still get your cycle back, but for 24 hours at a time, it won't harm your goldies.

It would replace your normal water conditioner, either permanently or when you get a spike, until the ammonia is gone.

Hendryx

Okay, will pick some up! thank you!!

Oil_Fan

API is ok. I've had nothing but problems with any sort of accuracy with readings in pH. Ammonia, nitrate and nitrite work ok. calcium test kits tends to be off.

Don't get me wrong, API is a good start for those who are just starting out in the hobby. But Salifert, Elos and Seachem are all far more accurate but also costs $$$.

Meenu

Much more accurate than the strips most new members use. And cost-effective (although when you shell out the money, it sure doesn't feel cost-effective. )