On all new tanks, (well even old ones that have sat empty for a while) go through this new tank syndrome. At first ammonia is produced then bacteria grow to change the ammonia into nitrites. Then bacteria grow that change the nitrites into nitrates. Then live plants can be added to consume the nitrates. Ammonia and nitrites are harmful to the fish. Nitrates aren't so much of a problem and the fish can withstand large quantities of nitrates. Plus, live plants love the Nitrates. What this process is all about is getting the bacteria to grow. This bacteria won't grow without the presence of fish. I added Cycle to speed up the cycle. Carbon, UV and bio filtration methods slow down the process, so does water changing. Therefore, these filtrations will be suspended until the cycle is complete or if needed in an emergency. The trick is to test the water daily and do partial water changes at first if the ammonia and or nitrite levels get too high. After the cycle is complete then carbon/bio filtration can be added.
