Nitrite question

[Breakthecycle2]

I cant seen to get the levels down any further then 5.0. I just did about a 40% water change and its still at 5.00, but it was probably even higher (my test kit only goes up to 5). How else can I get the level down? I do water changes everyday or other day, usually about 30-50%. This monday, my tank will be about 1 month old.

 

[WILDER]

So you are still cycling, how many gallons is the tank, plus what fish and how many do you have in the tank, nitrite peaks stays there for a day or two them comes down to 0.

 

[Breakthecycle2]

its a 20 gallon with some neon tetras and dwarf chichlids, Its been like this for close to a week.

 

[Tokis-Phoenix]

Are you using dechlorinator and is the tank filter working properly?

 

[Breakthecycle2]

yes, I dechlorinate every water change and the filter, from what I can see is working properly.

 

[Mo_loves_fish]

umm try this brand of nitrate reducer called cycle you can pick it up at petco or pet smart

 

[Breakthecycle2]

I used that before when my ammonia was spiking, it really didn't help. How long does the nitrite spike last?

 

[Mo_loves_fish]

how many chicild do u have?

 

[Breakthecycle2]

4

2 bolivian rams
2 Kribs

I know 2 dwatfs per 20 gallons. Theyre young and theyre fine right now. They will be moved later.

 

[Dawney G]

I would use AquaPlus Tap water conditioner in the replacement water. Add the water every 15 munites or so to avoid any emediate changes to the water. Also add a double dose of that Cycle stuff to activate and supliment the biological filter.
That should help. It does with mine.
Good luck
xx
dawney g

 

[Barracuda518]

The best way to get Nitrites down is to do water changes and not feed the fish near as much. Your ammonia spiked because that is the first stage of the cycle. Any chemical for the nitrites will just make them go down for a certain time. One or two water changes isnt going to make them drop really fast. I did multiple water changes, one every 5-6 hours, when mine was cycling and that helped. Make sure you add the right stuff to get the tap water safe for the fish. It takes time, as the cycle must run. Soon those Nitrites will turn into Nitrates. After that, the nitrates should gradually go down and the tank will be done cycling. Keep an eye on the fish for signs of stress, like gasping at the top for air or not swimming as much. Also, if you are adding chemicals, make sure they dont harm the fish in there now, as some chemicals hurt certain fish.