Nitrite spike...

[digital_run]

Hi there.. I tested my water the other day and pretty much over night my Nitrite level went from 0 to 0.8 - 1.6 mg/l. Now i did a 30% water change with a Gravel vac and cleaned my filter in my Aquaclear ( with old water ). And inspected my Bio-wheel for any possible vegtable matter which may be stuck in there.

My readings are:

Ph - 7.5
NH3/Nh4 - 0 mg/L
Nitrate - 12.5 mg/L
Nitrite - 0.8-1.6mg/L

Now i dont have any bottom feeders and was planning on adding two Pictus Catfish Today but wasn't sure if i should add any more fish with this Nitrite level...is it ok ??
Could my Nitrite level be high because i dont have an effective ground crew?

Thnx for takin the time ti help me out

 

[heresmike]

Sounds like your tank is going through a mini-cycle. Did you add any fish recently?

Are you vacuuming the gravel regularly? If so, I don't think the lack of bottom feeders could be the problem.

Personally I wouldn't add any fish 'til ammo and nitrites are stable at zero.