Tank Cycling Question

[trinity28]

I recently set up two new tanks: a 20 gallon high and a 29 gallon. I added filter media from my established tanks to both of these new tanks to help jump start. I have been adding fish food to both every day to provide an ammonia source. So far, I haven’t had any luck with moving the cycle forward. Both tanks have been running for about two weeks. I tested today and my ammonia for both is .75 and nitrites and nitrates are 0. Do I need to do something different or do a water change? Do I just need to wait longer? I know fish food isn’t the best ammonia source but I was hoping to avoid buying something additional.

Also to note, neither of these have fish in them. One has live plants but that’s it. I have never done a fishless cycle before because I was a bum and didn’t research or know about the cycle before I got my current fish. Luckily they’re all cycled now.

 

[Fljoe]

I’ve read about other members say that fish food doesn’t break down fast enough to be a good ammonia source.
You can use regular ammonia as long as it’s pure ammonia. No bubbles when you shake the bottle.

 

[trinity28]

I’ve read about other members say that fish food doesn’t break down fast enough to be a good ammonia source.
You can use regular ammonia as long as it’s pure ammonia. No bubbles when you shake the bottle.

That’s what I was afraid of. I will try to get some pure ammonia.

 

[Fljoe]

That’s what I was afraid of. I will try to get some pure ammonia.

Grocery store or even a dollar store. Just shake it before you buy it. No bubbles!

 

[trinity28]

How much ammonia would I need to put in each day? Thanks!

 

[Fljoe]

Someone who doses ammonia would have to answer that. I’m sorry I haven’t done a fishless cycle. But I think it’s just a few drops to get your ammonia readings at 4ppm.

 

[Brian Knowles]

Hope this helps you. Fishless Cycle Ammonia Calculator

 

[trinity28]

Hope this helps you. Fishless Cycle Ammonia Calculator

That's great, thanks!