Should a cycled tank have nitrates?

When nitrates are being produced and ammonia and nitrite levels are zero, your tank is fully cycled and your biological filter is fully functioning (from 2-6 weeks). In low levels, nitrates are not highly toxic to fish. Routine partial water changes of about 10% should keep nitrate levels within a safe range.

Is zero nitrates OK in aquarium?

A reading of 0 Nitrate means either the tank is extremely clean, or completely without a functional cycle. Or maybe a tank without any live animals. If you want a cycle you need someone pooing in there. If you don’t have build-up of the toxic ones, Nitrite and Ammonia, you should not worry too much.

What should nitrates be in a cycled tank?

Although many aquarists run their tanks with extreme nitrate levels, the ideal is a maximum of 5 to 10 ppm. Levels of 20 to 50 ppm are too high. Freshwater tanks can be at the higher end, with marine fish-only setups at the lower end and reef tanks as near zero as possible.

Can’t get my nitrates down?

The quickest and easiest way to get nitrates down in your setup is to change the water. As long as your tap water has a lower nitrate level than your tank water, by replacing it, your nitrate level will go down. Test the nitrate level in both your tank and your tap, to ensure that this is the case.

How long does it take for ammonia to turn into nitrite in a cycled tank?

Beneficial bacteria is needed to take toxic fish waste called ammonia and convert it into nitrite and nitrate. Growing this beneficial bacteria takes time! It may take 4 to 6 weeks for the process to complete.

How long does it take for ammonia to turn into nitrite?

How long does it take for nitrite to turn into nitrate?

This process normally takes anywhere from 2-6 weeks. At temperatures below 70F, it takes even longer to cycle a tank. In comparison to other types of bacteria, Nitrifying bacteria grow slowly.

Can you get zero nitrates in a fully cycled tank?

To submit your vote please sign in or sign up, it is free and takes a few seconds. It is absolutely possible to get zero nitrates in a fully cycled tank. BUT… this is rare, and only happens if a specific set of circumstances are met.

How do I know if my tank has zero nitrates?

Generally the average fish-keeper who is just beginning to cycle their tank will not have zero nitrates AND a cycled tank. The only way to know for sure is to introduce a source of Ammonia, and then monitor levels.

How can I get zero nitrates in my pond?

To get a reading of zero nitrates one must have: Anaerobic Bacteria that consume Nitrate, and have Nitrogen as their waste You Eliminate any dying vegetation and are VERY good at vacuuming the substrate

Should my tank have a spike in nitrogen?

You SHOULD have a spike in NitrAtes though, as that is really the end product of the nitrogen cycle. A word of Caution do not dose a tank that already has fish in it with Ammonia.