Tank cycle and EI

[DanielSev]

Hi, I'm just beginning to cycle my (half) planted tank and also started (half) EI dosing + CO2 + Excel from day zero. How EI affects the cycling process ? Certainly you are not adding ammonia or nitrite, which AFAIK are necessary to trigger the development of the bacterial colony. So I think that there is not much influence from what you are adding. On the other hand, what about water changes ? I keep reading every where that large water changes are not advised in that period. So, do I have to perform regular 50% WC ?

Best regards,
Daniel

 

[Jim Miller]

If you don't have any critters you don't need to worry about anything other than making your plants happy. Don't stress on water changes until you're ready for critters. Any reason not to plant heavier? It's always good to do IMO. You can always remove later if you find stuff you don't want or want different.

Some folks don't like snails but I find them useful as a cleanup crew. I have acquired mine (pond, ramshorns) as ridealongs on plants except for some MTS which I intentionally added. They would likely help the cycling along.

But by far the best thing you can do is to get some filter material from an established tank and add it to your filter. My tank cycled in two days after doing that.

have fun

jim

 

[DanielSev]

Hi Jim,

I don't have any critter now (at least no one I've put voluntarily in my tank). Just I don't know if it is safe to perform the weekly 50% WC in this period.

Best regards,
Daniel

 

[Jim Miller]

No critters? Then don't change water. It isn't necessary.

Jim

 

[DanielSev]

But what happens then with the over time accumulation of nitrates, phosphates, etc... due to EI fertilization ?

 

[Jim Miller]

Your plants eat them!!

jim

 

[DanielSev]

Your plants eat them!!

jim

OK, I see. So, because there are not critters I can let the ferts accumulate (EI style) but I should do a large water change before introducing any fish or critter. Thank you for your advise !

Best regards,
Daniel