I need MAJOR cycling help.

[Judge]

Yep, that's normal but your filter should clear it up, just be patient!!

[Nathan879]

Originally Posted by Judge

Yep, that's normal but your filter should clear it up, just be patient!!

Ok thanks, and I have the Whisper Power Filter 20 by Tetra, and I learned its not for a 5 gallon. What should I do, would my guppies be ok with it (not including the fry.)

[Nathan879]

Originally Posted by Judge

Yep, that's normal but your filter should clear it up, just be patient!!

And, what does it mean for ammonia to spike?

[Judge]

Ok, I am confused. I read back through the last few posts...did I say something about Ammonia spike? You keep your ammonia level constant and when the Nitrite "spikes" you will see it decline followed by Nitrate rising. Without a nitrite spike you cannot be absolutely sure that the cycle is progressing. Does this help..or am i confusing things more? I hope not but let me know.

[Nathan879]

Originally Posted by Judge

Ok, I am confused. I read back through the last few posts...did I say something about Ammonia spike? You keep your ammonia level constant and when the Nitrite "spikes" you will see it decline followed by Nitrate rising. Without a nitrite spike you cannot be absolutely sure that the cycle is progressing. Does this help..or am i confusing things more? I hope not but let me know.

Sorry, I just mean a spike in general. I'm not confused at all.

[Judge]

What I meant by a Nitrite spike is that if you check your readings daily you will see it jump way up high before it begins to decrease which should signal a rise in Nitrates.

[Nathan879]

Originally Posted by Judge

What I meant by a Nitrite spike is that if you check your readings daily you will see it jump way up high before it begins to decrease which should signal a rise in Nitrates.

Oh ok thanks, I have 1ppm ammonia, and 5 ppm nitrite, its running smoothly. I couldn't have done it without this forum. But I still have a few questions, would you mind answering?

[Judge]

Ask away, that's why I am here!

[Nathan879]

Originally Posted by Judge

Ask away, that's why I am here!

My Ph is out of the roof. Is this normal during a cycle? How would i lower it after? And do I have to let my tank sit after Nitrites and Ammonia are at 0? If so how long? Thank you!

[Judge]

I have to say Nathan I am impressed with your patience and diligence! You are willing to ask the questions and do the research so I feel you will do exceedingly well in this hobby. Good for you. It is always a pleasure to listen to and "watch" young people who are willing to learn from those who have been doing this awhile.
Alright, to answer your questions, first after you reach 0 on Nitrite and Ammonia you should see a big rise in Nitrates. You'll need to complete a big water change which should lower Nitrates. Next, test your ph. I have never added anything to my water to lower ph. Messing with it can make matters worse, especially if you have livestock in your tank. Unless it is seriously out of whack I would leave it alone, fish will adjust. If it is seriously high there are products that can lower it. I would always use caution when adding anything to the water. Lastly as son as you do your big water change after reading 0's check params again and then you can stock. Just add fish slowly, don't add a bunch all at once. Again, continue to use the great patience and good sense you have exhibited so far. AND have fun! Keep up the great work and please keep us up to date on your progress.