Mini Cycle???

[freespirit114]

How long after the tank is cycled is it safe to add new fish? Unfortunately, I'm asking this question after the fact. I added 3 new guppies after the tank was cycled for a couple of days. One guppy died within a few days......I tested my water again at that time. The ammonia was 3.0. Water parameters had previously read: Ammonia 0; Nitrite 0; Nitrate 20; PH 7.0.
How long should I have waited? I don't see another reason why the ammonia would have spiked other than adding fish too soon.

 

[canarsie11]

Did you cycle with or without fish?

 

[freespirit114]

I cyled with fish. It took 7 weeks and I lost a couple in the process. I knew nothing about cycling when I started out, and I learned the hard way.

 

[corrosive]

I started my cycle yesterday, im getting my water tested to morrow, and will think about adding a couple of fish maybe next week(end of probably) just to help the tank mature etc.

 

[shadow]

You could use some gravel from an established tank which would help instead of adding fish.

 

[corrosive]

You could use some gravel from an established tank which would help instead of adding fish.

And plants...