Fishy cycling... how long before ammonia shows up?

[Trumpee]

I've just started a cycle in a new tank 5 days ago. I have 4 small Giant Danios helping me get the cycle going in a 46 gallon bow front tank. Feeding them a small pinch of Tetra Min flakes twice a day.

Daily ammonia tests have been showing 0 PPM, still after 5 days.

Tested the Nitrites for the first time today as well and they are testing at 0 PPM as well.

What's a typical wait time before seeing ammonia show up?

Is it possible I need a few more Danios in this size tank? If so, how long should I wait before adding a couple more fish.

Thanks.


-Dave

 

[TabMorte]

That's a pretty big tank for such tiny little fish.
Did you take anything from an already established tank and bring it into the new one? With those tiny fishes in it that could be enough for them.

 

[Trumpee]

No, I'm starting the cycle from scratch.

 

[punkrockfish]

not really sure how long it will take. may i ask why you didn't go with a fishless cycle?

 

[TabMorte]

I always cycle with fish personally! (My Bettas don't seem to mind breaking in new tanks for me, in their bowls they're always getting complete water changes so they're used to it) but I always take something from a cycled tank and put it in with them too (filter media or some gravel or a decoration all work really well) and I've never had a problem. But I also use small tanks only now, maybe it's easier for them.

 

[roark fishies]

Maybe it's taking longer cuz it's a big tank?