High Amonia

[nkemp]

I started my tank about half a week ago, I have been reading websites about the cycling process and bought a kit to test all my levels. My pH is high at 8.0 but everything else was zip, untill this moring when my amonia levels jumped (like its supposed to). But its alil higher then normal (because of the pH?) at .5 . I printed a chart out from about.com saying what levels and what needs to be done if it goes to high. they say .25 is ok but after that things need to be done. So I changed about 20% of the water like they said but its still high. and one of my fish won't leave the surface (one of the signs of high amonia). 2 fish seem to be flying around the tank like normal and 1 other one seems to mope around and stay near the bottom. (that one may have a broken fin of some sort). So about.com said if any of the fish show any signs of distress to lower the amonia levels with chemicals. What are your suggestions.


20 Gal tank
4 zebra danio's
external filter
heater (79 degrees F)

 

[Cheffi]

I started my tank about half a week ago, I have been reading websites about the cycling process and bought a kit to test all my levels. My pH is high at 8.0 but everything else was zip, untill this moring when my amonia levels jumped (like its supposed to). But its alil higher then normal (because of the pH?) at .5 . I printed a chart out from about.com saying what levels and what needs to be done if it goes to high. they say .25 is ok but after that things need to be done. So I changed about 20% of the water like they said but its still high. and one of my fish won't leave the surface (one of the signs of high amonia). 2 fish seem to be flying around the tank like normal and 1 other one seems to mope around and stay near the bottom. (that one may have a broken fin of some sort). So about.com said if any of the fish show any signs of distress to lower the amonia levels with chemicals. What are your suggestions.


20 Gal tank
4 zebra danio's
external filter
heater (79 degrees F)

I would suggest taking the fish back and doing a Fishless Cycle. A lot easier, no fish to stress and when it's finished you can put a full load of fish in.

 

[nkemp]

I think its alittle late for that, I already have the cycle started. Anyone else have advice for my question.

 

[Flunter]

It's never too late. Return the fish and buy a bottle of ammonia. Click here Fishless cycle

Any LFS worth it's salt will be only too happy to give a refund/credit knowing you will be back in the future for more fish.

Oh and btw, welcome to TFF

 

[Cheffi]

I think its alittle late for that, I already have the cycle started. Anyone else have advice for my question.

Your first post said you were only 'half a week' into the cycle. That is not too late to change over. Give the Fishless Cycling stickies a read.