Worms died during cycling

[jc85]

Hi Guys,

I had started my cycling since 4 days ago. For the last two days, i found that many of the worms that came with my LR are dying and i'm experiencing the ammonia spike. Should I start removing those dead worm from the tank to stop the ammonia spike? Btw, I had also threw in a "market prawn" on the 2nd day to kick start the cycling process.

Have another question. I had many patched of "web" forming on my LR and the dead organism. Is this normal?

Thanks in advance

 

[wade1]

First, why ask if you should remove a dead worm when you added dead flesh initially? (which btw was totally not necessary) Removing them will eliminate some of the ammonia and other nutrients released into the system, but may not be enough to make a difference one way or the other in practical amounts.

The "web" you are seeing is either the remnants from live worms (the slime they leave) or possibly fungus devouring the corpses. Nothing to be concerned about as its completely normal.

Wade

 

[jc85]

Thanks Wade.

I tot of removing the died worm because I had experienced the ammonia spike and was wondering if more worms are dying the spike might last too long resulting in more organism dying.

Cheers

 

[wade1]

In general a few worms won't create much of a spike of ammonia. But, due to the way a cycle works, as those bacteria become well colonized, more ammonia produced is more converted. It should not extend the cycle any more. It won't hurt to remove or leave them in my experience, so either way works. Just make sure you have a good skimmer going or other mechanical filtration to catch any loose debris.

Good luck with it!

Wade

 

[jc85]

Thanks Wade. I had tested and found that my Nitrite are raising too.

You've been a great help.

 

[Expos Forever]

Many people do large water changes during the cycle to lower ammonia rates. While die-off is normal this may help reduce it some.

 

[Anonymous]

when people talk slime i think 1984 ectoplasma ghostbusters...sorry its off the topic just throwing out random comments

8)