I've heard it both ways. Some left the shrimp in until full cycle and some removed the shrimp after 7-8 days or when Ammonia peaked.

Patient is the key. Keep doing water test so you can see what stage you are at. You are well on your way.

Also, you will start to see a diatom bloom (brown algae everywhere) when you are closer...don't panic. Its normal and will usually go away after about a week. What helps is to use RODI water to make your premix and for top offs. Tap water is not good and promotes algae issues even if you use Prime, etc.


Below is a link to a helpful chart.

http://saltaquarium.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=saltaquarium&cdn=homegarden&tm=209&f= 10&su=p284.13.342.ip_p504.6.342.ip_&tt=2&bt=0&bts= 1&zu=http%3A//www.bestfish.com/newtank3.html

Keep us posted.