Day 14 Of The Fishless Cycle......

[-Jo-]

In my API test kit, I have a PH testing bottle and a High PH testing bottle. I wasnt sure what the High PH one was either - but I thought id test it anyway!

My PH levels usually read at 7.6 - so yes your right they have dropped. I did notice that when I tested the PH last night - but i thought that the cycling would only stall if the PH dropped absolute loads...which i suppose it has in a way.

My stocking plans would include corys (undecided on which ones yet!) guppies and platys. Thought I would have the traditional starter fish as this is my first tropical tank.

 

[snazy]

My PH levels usually read at 7.6 - so yes your right they have dropped

7.6 is the maximum on the low Ph range. Therefore if you get this result you also need to measure the Ph using the high Ph test bottle to see exactly how much it is.

1 point drop in Ph from 7.6 to 6.6 for example is a huge drop. At Ph 6.5 the biological filtration takes completely different form and you will have problems with your cycle. I would do a large water change if I were you and start monitoring the Ph making sure it doesn't drop again.

 

[-Jo-]

thank you for your help. Will be doing a large water change in a bit.

 

[mozcheez]

Just a tip to throw out there (because this helped me). I was getting some readings with the API tests occasionally that just didn't make much sense, and I realized that sometimes the tubes or caps were not dried completely and the tests were being partially manipulated by a couple of drops of some leftover tap-water!

Probably not at all the case with your tests, but just something to be conscious of. Good luck! I'm still waiting for my nitrite spike to pass/drop.

 

[-Jo-]

thank you for the advice. I am currently have issues with my filter - as in its stopped working. so i cant do anything until thats started up again if it does!