I Think My Tank's Nitrite Levels Are Too High!

[emmettbaby]

Ok so my tank hasn't cycled yet!

10 gallons
three corydoras
two scissortail rasboras
NOT planted

Okay so about two days ago, I tested the water and the strip said the nitrite level was about 1.0.

Today (september 22) i tested the water again.

My nitrate level have risen a bit (maybe from 5 a few days ago to 10 today and that's a big guess) but the nitrate level isn't above "20" mark on the strip.

My nitrite today is REALLY REAALLLLY pink! It's a dark pink, much darker than the highest mark on the strip label. The label's max is 10.0! Is this too high eventhough my tank is cycling? I haven't changed the water for atleast a week. HELP PLEASE!

 

[keeton]

should be doing two 50% water changes aday in a fish in cycle.
as nitrite and ammonia are both very toxic to fish, i suggest getting a liquid test kit as these are very accuratel.

 

[emmettbaby]

okay thank you! i'll go change the water now

 

[emmettbaby]

okay i did a 50% water change what now?

 

[Mr._Fishy]

Try to just keep on doing water changes until your tank is cycled.

 

[fatheadminnow]

Ammonia and Nitrite should not go over .25 ppm. Ammonia over that level will cause permanent gill damage, and nitrite over that level will cause permanent nerve damage.

You NEED to do daily water changes to keep ammonia and nitrite down as close to zero as possible.

Also, strip test kits are no good and inaccurate, you need to go out and get a Liquid test kit!

The API fresh water master test kit is a really good Liquid test kit.

Have a read here:

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=224306

-FHM