How long does it take to cycle a new aquarium?

Normally, it takes 4-6 weeks for the growth of beneficial bacteria to complete the nitrogen cycle in a new aquarium. It is not unusual for seeded aquariums to fully cycle in half the time it would normally take, thus allowing you to stock more fish in the new tank sooner.

How long does it take to cycle a tank with quick start?

Once sufficient ammonia is present in the tank (3-5ppm), it takes about another week or two for the bacteria to then break it down to nitrites and then nitrates, completing the cycle. During this time your fish will be suffering high ammonia and nitrite levels, even with frequent water changes.

How do you know when your aquarium is cycled?

After testing your aquarium water for ammonia and nitrite and nitrate, if the reading shows 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and some nitrates then your fish tank is cycled. Cycling a new tank usually takes between four to six weeks. Cycling your fish tank can take a long time.

How often can you add API QUICK START?

Add it during every water change until you are fully cycled. If your ammonia/nitrite levels are spiking quickly then change the water more often and hence you will be adding the Quick Start more often. Fishmommie gave you good advice; if the ammonia or nitrite are above 0.5 then do a water change.

Is it OK to change the water in a cycling aquarium?

Some people recommend not doing water changes while the tank is cycling because they believe that this will disturb the bacteria that are colonizing the biological filter and will either prevent the tank from cycling or will make it take longer to cycle. This is actually one of the common misconceptions in the aquarium hobby.

What’s the best way to speed up the aquarium cycle?

The best way, by far, to speed up the aquarium cycle is to install a filter that already contains the beneficial bacteria. Simply remove the filter from the cycled aquarium and add it to your new tank. FishLab Update: Good news! Angels Plus will ship a cycled sponge filter to your door for small price.

Why do you use Fishless cycling in an aquarium?

Fishless cycling has become the more correct way of cycling the aquarium. This is because cycling with fish can be seen as cruel as spiking ammonia levels can be damaging to fish health. Fish waste adds ammonia to the water which can kick starts the bacteria growth. This can be replicated by adding ammonia directly to the aquarium.

How long does it take to cycle an aquarium?

Depending on who you ask, cycling your aquarium can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months.

How long does it take to cycle a new aquarium? Normally, it takes 4-6 weeks for the growth of beneficial bacteria to complete the nitrogen cycle in a new aquarium. It is not unusual for seeded aquariums to fully cycle in half the time it would normally take, thus allowing you to stock more fish…