orca cycling

[tomo123]

hi, i am 15 years old and have just started a nano reef. Ihave 5 kilos of LR and 2" of live sand.I have removed the orcas bio balls and ceramic rings and replaced it with LR rubble. My question is:how long do i have to wait until my tank is cycled?I know it takes about 2-4weeks but i read that with fully cured rock(only 10 mins in packaging and journey) the process takes only a few days.If it is cycled how will i know? thanks tomo

[Slakker]

You'll know because your ammonia, nitrites, and nitrate tests will read zero.

[tomo123]

my tests say there is none. i have had the rock for 3 days.should there be a spike or can it just remain 0 and be ready?

[Slakker]

There should be a spike. If the levels don't rise, the cycle hasn't started.

Add some meaty food (thawed table shrimp works well) if you don't start to see some ammonia.

[tomo123]

ok thanks