Microbiological stabilization is key during the cycling phase of an aquarium, not only for future fauna but also for healthy plant growth. The effectiveness of fertilization from the beginning depends on multiple factors, such as the type of plants, the equipment used and the substrate of the aquarium. The presence of liquid fertilizers is recommended from the beginning as a precaution, including one that provides nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), such as Hydra macros, an iron-based fertilizer should also be part of the basic equipment, Hydra Micros.
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We will explore in detail the typical processes that an aquarium goes through in the first few weeks before we approach fertilization.
Detailed cycling stages:
Substrate and decoration introduction: The initial stage is crucial to create a physical environment that supports plants and provides shelter for future inhabitants.
Adding water and equipment: With the substrate in place, the addition of water and the installation of essential equipment, such as filters and heaters, establish the initial conditions of the aquarium.
Start of the nitrogen cycle: The controlled introduction of ammonia sources triggers the cycle, where nitrifying bacteria convert the ammonia into nitrite.
growth of nitrobacteria colonies: Over the initial weeks, colonies of nitrosomonas and nitrobacter bacteria thrive in the filtration media. These bacteria are vital for the transformation of ammonia into nitrite and subsequently into nitrate.
Gradual reduction of ammonia and nitrite: As the nitrifying bacteria settle down, the concentrations of ammonia and nitrite gradually decrease. The initial peak of ammonia is a normal part of the process, indicating the maturation of the biological system.
Gradual introduction of inhabitants: After the significant reduction of ammonia and nitrite, the aquarium is ready to receive its inhabitants. The introduction should be done gradually so as not to overload the still-developing biological system.
Challenges during cycling and corresponding solutions:
Algae growth: It is common during cycling. The strategic introduction of algae eaters, such as nerite snails, can help control this problem.
Regular monitoring: Regular water tests are essential to ensure that ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels are within acceptable limits.
necessary adjustments: CO2 injection and fertilization regimens may require adjustments as the aquarium matures. Monitoring and making adjustments are best practices for a healthy and stable aquatic environment.
Plants and fertilization:
Most of the plants acquired in specialized stores are still in the form of emergent, needing to adapt to the new underwater life. This process involves hormonal adjustments that consume resources and require time. Losing all the emerging leaves is common, but even unspoiled plants can show signs of deterioration, especially if the substrate considerably reduces the pH, causing the so-called "melting".
Do not give up prematurely, as plants usually recover. Starting with an insufficient mass of plants is a common mistake. During the cycling phase, the aquarium's biological system is still fragile, requiring a large number of plants to control algae. Saving money at this stage can result in higher costs later in terms of time, work and money. The ideal is to start your aquarium with as many plants as possible to help balance the ecosystem.
Algae:
A certain level of growth is normal during the cycling period, as the plants are not yet completely fixed and the system is finding its balance. Diatoms and green layers of algae can appear, being a crucial moment to introduce algae eaters such as Amano shrimp and nerite snails. Plants will eventually compete with the algae for nutrients, but if necessary, temporary algaecides such as Hydra Liquid Carbon can be used to balance the situation.
Fertilization:
Fertilization in a newly configured tank depends on several factors. To ensure a good start for your planted tank, it is essential to meet the following conditions:
Sufficient plant mass: About 50 to 60% of the aquarium soil should be covered immediately after planting.
CO2 injection: Provide the aquarium with about 20-30 mg of carbon dioxide per liter.
Suitable light intensity: at least 0.5 watts/liter (for fluorescent lamps) or 30 lumens/liter (for LEDs) with an initial lighting period of 6 hours.
Active substrate rich in nutrients.
Especially at the beginning, when the mass of plants is still small, a reduced fertilization regimen with an iron fertilizer, such as Hydra Micros, is recommended. Gradually increase the dose as plants adapt to underwater life. Come on FDF9F1 (code has already been used) If red algae occur, the amount of fertilizer may be very high; In this case, add micronutrients after a few days or a week at most.
Macronutrient fertilization is strongly influenced by the substrate used. Prefertilized substrates release large amounts of nitrogenous compounds and absorb minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium from the water. Frequent water changes during the cycling phase are recommended to prevent nutrient spikes. The absorption of calcium and magnesium is beneficial, making the water softer and slightly acidic, favoring plants. Add liquid fertilizers, especially potassium, to compensate for possible deficiencies.
For neutral substrates such as sand or gravel, add an adequate amount of fertilizers once to achieve specific water parameters at the beginning of the aquarium. The water used is crucial, and regular tests are needed to adjust the fertilizer dosage based on the water parameters.
Fertilization schedule for the cycling phase:
Here is a general schedule for the cycling phase of a tank with pre-fertilized active soil:
Day 1: Decorate the aquarium, add plants, fill the water and connect the equipment. Install a permanent CO2 test. Use beginner bacteria if available.
Day 2: Start adding a reduced amount of NPK fertilizer.
Day 4: Change at least 50% of the water. Start a reduced regimen of micronutrient fertilization.
Day 8: Test the water for ammonia (NH4) and nitrite (NO2). Change at least 50% of the water.
After week 1: Adjust the CO2 injection if necessary. Continue with regular water changes.
Day 11: Change at least 50% of the water.
Day 15: Test the water for NH4 and NO2. Change at least 50% of the water.
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After Week 2: Introduce algae eaters if possible. Continue adjusting fertilization as needed.
Day 18: Change at least 50% of the water.
Day 22: Test all water parameters. Change at least 50% of the water.
After Week 3: Plants must have assumed their submerged form. Perform a water analysis to identify possible nutrient gaps. Adjust the fertilization regime as needed.
Day 23: Start the optimized fertilization regime by adding micronutrients.
Day 25: Change at least 50% of the water.
Day 29: Test the water parameters. Change at least 50% of the water.
After week 4: the nitrogen peak should decrease. Conditions should have gradually balanced with the addition of liquid fertilizers. If possible, add the first fish.
After approximately one month, the cycling phase should be completed, but the biological system may take another one or two months to completely stabilize. Monitor plant growth, animal behavior and water parameters to react to possible problems before they settle down.
