MicroBacter QuikCycl - FAQ

What is MicroBacter QuikCycl?
MicroBacter QuikCycl is a nutrient solution designed for fishless aquarium cycling that provides ammonia and other nutrients required to establish nitrifying bacteria.

What does MicroBacter QuikCycl do?
It supplies ammonia to feed nitrifying bacteria, allowing them to grow and establish the biological filtration needed to complete the nitrogen cycle.

Does MicroBacter QuikCycl cycle an aquarium by itself?
No. It does not contain bacteria. It must be used with a live bacterial product such as MicroBacter Start XLM to successfully cycle an aquarium.

Is MicroBacter QuikCycl safe for fish, corals, or plants?
No. This product contains ammonia and is only for use in fishless cycling. Do not use in aquariums with live fish, corals, invertebrates, or plants.

When should I use MicroBacter QuikCycl?

• When performing a fishless cycle on a new aquarium

• When restarting a system without livestock

• When pairing with a bacterial product to establish filtration

How often should I dose MicroBacter QuikCycl?
Typically, it is dosed at the start of the cycle. Additional dosing is not usually required unless ammonia levels drop too low before the cycle is complete.

How do I dose MicroBacter QuikCycl?
Shake well before use. Add approximately 1 ml per 5 gallons (or 4 drops per gallon) to reach an ammonia level of about 1–2 ppm.

What should ammonia levels be when using QuikCycl?
Ammonia should be maintained around 1–2 ppm during the initial stage of cycling to properly feed nitrifying bacteria.

Do I need to use a bacterial product with QuikCycl?
Yes. A live nitrifying bacteria product (such as MicroBacter Start XLM) must be used at the same time or the cycle will not occur.

What should I test during cycling?
Test ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate regularly. The tank is cycled when ammonia and nitrite are zero and nitrate is present.

Can I overdose MicroBacter QuikCycl?
No. Overdosing can raise ammonia to dangerous levels and stall or harm the cycling process. Always follow dosing instructions carefully.

Do I need to turn off equipment when dosing?
Yes. Turn off UV sterilizers, skimmers, and remove fine mechanical filtration during cycling to allow bacteria to establish properly.

Can I use QuikCycl with other filtration media or additives?
Avoid using chemical filtration media (such as carbon or phosphate removers) during cycling, as they can slow the process.

How long does it take to cycle using QuikCycl?
Cycle time varies depending on the bacterial product used, but typically takes about 7–14 days when paired with a quality nitrifying bacteria source.

What happens after the tank is cycled?
Once ammonia and nitrite are zero and nitrate is present, perform a water change if needed and begin adding livestock gradually.