Cycle started August 27th.
Didn't see any appreciable drop in ammonia.
Had .25 nitrites within 5 days, never changed after that.
Did 90% water change Sept. 10th. Used water conditioner. Re-dosed ammonia.
Today? No ammonia change. No nitrites.
So. What happened to my nitrites? I had some before the water change, so I must have had at least a small amount of bacteria in my filter. Now? Nothing. Even if I'd killed them all, I should have gotten something in a week.
I don't have access to an established tank. I know it will take longer because of this, but it's been 3 weeks now, and NOTHING is happening. Is there anyone in Minneapolis/St. Paul that can donate some media for a HOB to help me jump start this? Or have another suggestion?
I know a fishless cycle is the best... but it's NOT cycling. I have no idea what to do. I'm about ready to buy some hardy fish and do water changes... but I don't want to hurt the fish either. Is my ammonia just not tasty enough?
Didn't see any appreciable drop in ammonia.
Had .25 nitrites within 5 days, never changed after that.
Did 90% water change Sept. 10th. Used water conditioner. Re-dosed ammonia.
Today? No ammonia change. No nitrites.
So. What happened to my nitrites? I had some before the water change, so I must have had at least a small amount of bacteria in my filter. Now? Nothing. Even if I'd killed them all, I should have gotten something in a week.
I don't have access to an established tank. I know it will take longer because of this, but it's been 3 weeks now, and NOTHING is happening. Is there anyone in Minneapolis/St. Paul that can donate some media for a HOB to help me jump start this? Or have another suggestion?
I know a fishless cycle is the best... but it's NOT cycling. I have no idea what to do. I'm about ready to buy some hardy fish and do water changes... but I don't want to hurt the fish either. Is my ammonia just not tasty enough?
. I don't think it would survive the post. 
