Level Control

How do I control the nitrite level in my fish tank?

I've had a 29 gallon tropical freshwater fish tank set up for about 1.5 months. I am having trouble controlling the nitrite level. It is dangerously high and I've lost several fish probably due to this issue. I was adding cycle to the water which is supposed to help but hasn't. Until now the ammonia level was high as well but that seems to be under control according to my recent water tests.

You had the right idea adding cycle, but as mentioned the stuff is worthless.

Water changes are important. Do them as often as you need to to keep levels low. Don't worry, the myth that it ruins the cycle is just that, and if it does slow the cycle a bit, who cares, it will save your fish.

The best method (and most overlooked) of getting over this cycle and saving the fish is by adding healthy, live bacteria. To do this obtain as much filter media or gravel from a mature and established tank as you can get and place this into your own filter - now you have added real bacteria that takes care of nitrite and ammonia. Depending how much you can get you will either speed up the cycle or negate it altogether. If you don't know anybody with a tank that can help you out, your fish store might be able to. Take this media home in a bag of aquarium water to keep the bacteria alive until you add it.

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