Three days since the water change, and… we’re not out of the woods yet.
Test Results
| Parameter | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ammonia | 0.25 ppm | Stable |
| Nitrite | 2.0-5.0 ppm | Still high |
| Nitrate | 0-5 ppm | Present |
The Nitrite Plateau
We hoped to see nitrite dropping significantly after the water change. Instead, it’s back in the 2-5 ppm range. The NOB bacteria are working, but they can’t keep up with nitrite production yet.
This is apparently common—the nitrite plateau. Some tanks stay elevated for days or even weeks while bacteria populations adjust.
Day 18 - The nitrite plateau continues
Snail Status
The snails recovered somewhat after our Day 16 water change:
- Two grazing normally on the bottom and coral
- One still prefers the upper regions of the tank
They seem to have adjusted to the elevated nitrite. Not thriving exactly, but stable. We’re keeping a close eye on them.
Plant Observations
Despite the nitrite stress, the plants continue growing:
Water Wisteria: Now noticeably taller than at setup. The jungle effect is becoming real.
Dwarf Sagittaria: Runners spreading! We count at least 5 new baby plants emerging from the substrate.
Crypts: Recovery mode. New leaves growing from most crowns. The melt is ending.
Red Root Floaters: Covering about 50% of the surface now. Need to thin them soon.
The plants give us hope. A thriving plant mass means the ecosystem fundamentals are sound, even if the bacteria haven’t fully caught up.
Patience Mode
No action taken today except observation. The cycle needs time. We’re prepared to do another water change if the snails show severe stress, but for now we’re letting biology work.
Status: Nitrite plateau - patience required