MicroBacter QuikCycl - FAQ

What is MicroBacter QuikCycl?
MicroBacter QuikCycl is a concentrated ammonia-based nutrient solution designed to initiate fishless cycling and establish nitrifying bacteria in aquariums.

What does MicroBacter QuikCycl do?
It provides the ammonia source needed to feed nitrifying bacteria, helping build a strong biological filtration system.

Is MicroBacter QuikCycl a bacteria product?
No, it does not contain bacteria. It supplies nutrients that must be used alongside a separate bacterial culture.

Can MicroBacter QuikCycl cycle an aquarium by itself?
No, it only provides nutrients. A compatible bacterial product is required to establish the biological filter.

When should MicroBacter QuikCycl be used?
It is used during initial aquarium setup for fishless cycling before adding any livestock.

Can I use MicroBacter QuikCycl with fish or corals in the tank?
No, it must never be used in aquariums containing fish, plants, or invertebrates. Livestock should only be added after cycling is complete.

What type of aquariums can it be used in?
It is suitable for both freshwater and marine aquariums during the cycling phase.

How do I dose MicroBacter QuikCycl?
A typical starting dose is about 1 ml per 5 gallons, producing an ammonia level of approximately 1 to 2 ppm.

What ammonia level should I aim for?
The target range is approximately 1 to 2 ppm total ammonia to properly feed nitrifying bacteria.

Should I continue adding ammonia daily?
No, do not continue adding more ammonia once the initial dose is established, even if test readings fluctuate.

What products should be used with MicroBacter QuikCycl?
It should be used with a live bacterial culture such as MicroBacter Start XLM or XLF to complete the cycling process.

How long does it take to cycle an aquarium with QuikCycl?
Cycling time varies, but testing ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate daily helps track progress until the system stabilizes.

How do I know when the aquarium is fully cycled?
The cycle is complete when ammonia and nitrite reach zero and nitrate is detectable.

Should filtration equipment be adjusted during cycling?
Yes, protein skimmers, UV sterilizers, and fine mechanical filtration should be turned off during the initial cycling process.

Do I need to prepare the water before dosing?
Yes, water should be dechlorinated and adjusted for proper pH, alkalinity, and temperature before starting.

Can I use phosphate removers or carbon during cycling?
No, these should not be used during cycling as they can slow the establishment of beneficial bacteria.

Can MicroBacter QuikCycl be overdosed?
Yes, overdosing can negatively affect the cycling process, so dosing instructions should be followed carefully.

What happens if I add too much ammonia?
Excess ammonia will eventually convert to nitrate, which may require removal later through water changes.

Is MicroBacter QuikCycl safe to handle?
It contains ammonia and should be handled carefully, kept out of reach of children, and never ingested.