Too much Ammonia During Cycling?

Raineforrest

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Hello Reefers,

I began cycling a 75 gallon tank on May 20th using Dr Tim's One and Only and the ammonia. When I added the ammonia I followed directions but did not account for the sand and dry rock decreasing the water volume, meaning i may have added too much. So here we are 10 days later and I still have ammonia levels that appear to be 4-8 ppm according to the API test kit. There are 0 nitrites and 0 nitrates. Ive been doing research and most information I see says to wait it out. I also see contradicting info stating to do a water change. Should I wait it out and will the bacteria catch up? Or do I need to do a water change to lower the ammonia levels? Any insight is appreciated. I'm fine with waiting it out but I'm nervous that I put too much ammonia in and the bacteria can't handle it.

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Jekyl

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I would do a water change. Things will probably work themselves out, however wouldn't want the extra nitrate starting off.
 

Miami Reef

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I’d probably just wait it out. Having some nitrate is a good thing. The bacteria will catch up.

There’s also no harm in changing some water if you want to.
 
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gji

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If you are still showing ammonia and 0 nitrate your tank has not cycled yet. When you have 0 ammonia and some level of nitrate then your tank is cycled. So let your tank sit, do not do a water change, the ammonia will convert
 

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