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.
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!