After over three weeks of cycling, we hit a major milestone: ammonia reached 0 ppm for the first time!
Test Results
| Parameter | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ammonia | 0 ppm | ZERO for first time! |
| Nitrite | 2.0 ppm | Dropping from 5.0! |
| Nitrate | 5 ppm | Stable |
| pH | 7.2 | Slightly down |
Double Breakthrough
This test showed not one but TWO pieces of great news:
1. Ammonia at zero: The AOB bacteria are now processing ammonia as fast as it’s produced. The first stage of cycling is complete.
2. Nitrite dropping: Down from 5.0 ppm to 2.0 ppm! After 9 days at the plateau, the NOB bacteria have finally caught up. They’re consuming nitrite faster than it’s being produced.
We can see the finish line.
Day 23 - Major breakthrough! The finish line is in sight.
What Changed?
Why did the plateau finally break? A few factors:
- Time: Bacterial populations grow exponentially. Once they reach critical mass, processing accelerates
- Plants helping: Our growing plants absorb some nitrogen compounds directly
- Biofilm maturation: More surfaces colonized with beneficial bacteria
The extended plateau (9+ days) tested our patience, but the biology worked itself out.
Snail Check
Our Nerites are acting happier than they have in days:
- All three grazing actively
- None at the surface
- Visible clean trails on the glass
The lower nitrite is making a real difference for them.
Looking Ahead
With ammonia at zero and nitrite dropping, we’re entering the final phase of cycling. Estimated timeline:
- Days 24-28: Nitrite continues dropping toward zero
- Days 28-32: Both parameters stable at zero
- Week 5: Cycle officially complete!
We might have fish by mid-December. The dream is becoming real.
Status: MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH - Ammonia at zero! Nitrite finally dropping!