Cycling?...

Question
It's me again! (I asked you a few questions about starter tanks a few days ago)I've read countless articles, books, etc. on the subject of cycling, however I still can't seem to understand it. Do you think you could enlighten me on this topic?
Thanks, Rachel

Answer
Hi Rachel,

Cycling means allowing your aquarium to establish two types of good bacteria in the environment. The first type of bacteria eats and converts ammonia (produced by the fish) into another chemical called "nitrite". Both ammonia and nitrite are toxic.... But later, a second type of bacteria develops and converts nitrite into 'nitrate'. Nitrate is not harmful unless in massive concentration but it is simply kept in check by your regular water changes done as part of weekly maintenance on the tank.

*You can easily test for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates with simple test kits. It is helpful to know the levels to know when your water is healthy for your fish and how far along the tank is in cycling.

When tanks are newly setup. The bacteria are not yet established. Without them, if a bunch of fish are added -- ammonia will skyrocket and the fish will literally poison themselves. So you must stock your tank slowly - very gradual. Start off with just 2 small hardy fish in your new tank to provide the ammonia source for the bacteria to start developing. Let the tank run with just these few fish in it for at least 2 weeks. Check the water and if the levels of ammonia and nitrite are zero, then you can add a couple more fish.

Continue this slow-stocking process until your aquarium is fully stocked.

Most aquariums are officially fully established in about 6 or so weeks.

~If your fish at any time seem stressed with heavy breathing, clamped fins, loss of color or otherwise listless behavior do a 50% water change (making sure replacement water is treated with a water conditioner and the temp is equal to or just a bit warmer than your tank's.) sickly behavior will likely be caused by too high ammonia or nitrites and water changes are the best thing to do in these circumstances.

I do hope this helps and best wishes!
Karen~