Water testing

[Mr_Cool]

I wasn't really thinking, I guess. My full test kit is from SeaChem, but I ran out of the reagent drops that you use for Nitrite and Nitrate. Everything else seems like there's plenty left so I bought a refill of another brand that only tests for Nitrates. So, now I can't test for Nitrites.

Is it possible for Nitrites to be high (or even detectable) if the Nitrates are in the acceptable range? I guess it's possible when the tank is first cycling, right? But, if it's an established tank (already been through the normal cycle) Nitrites should be good if the Nitrates are good. Right?

[matt]

It's very unusual to have detectable nitrites except during some sort of cycle and/or ammonia spike. Unless you notice something off in your tank, then test for ammonia and find some, I wouldn't worry about nitrites.

[Bill S]

Ditto, Matt.

[Mr_Cool]

So, basically, if my parameter go off, test for ammonia. If I have ammonia present, then the tank is most likely cycling (for some reason), and nitrites will show up, too?

[matt]

Yep

[Mr_Cool]

Great! Thanks!