NO3 lag

[solpete]

Hi.. Does anyone know if theRe is and in that case how long lag, in time, there is between excess feeding and the rise in NO3.. ? THANKS

 

[Reef Commando]

Would it not depend on certain factors such as:

How efficient the bacteria is in converting to N03, which in turn could vary depending how old the tank is etc

How excessive the feeding is.


So probably a 'how long is a piece of string' question

 

[solpete]

Let's say your bacteria is exposed to a 10 fold increase in food. Would the response in NO3 come within an hour, a day or a week

 

[solpete]

The reason I ask is because it seems to me there is a delay lasting about two weeks

 

[Gasturbineguy]

Yeah a delay is normal. Two weeks seems kinda long but I guess it depends on what you are feeding. Everything needs to breakdown and be utilized by available bacteria population(s). Pure ammonia can be processed pretty quick and I use that as a test on my live rock and sand before I sell it or use it. There's an off chance you may be overfeeding or under-skimming. But you'd see an algae bloom, one would assume. Good luck and others will surely chime in with more ideas

 

[solpete]

I had a filter compartment which I removed. Now all areas should get flow... Check my tank page for further details