strips are often inacurate so u should get liquid test kits for ph, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. U should also get a cheap external thermometer. some live, lowlight plants like java moss, java fern, and anubia will also boost the cycling process.

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I'm so sorry I haven't been on the forum in so long! Don't worry, I haven't forgotten this lovely website! I moved to a different county back in May 2011 and started high school in a totally different school district. So I'm still adjusting and studying hard, and don't presently have any aquariums. But once I do, I'll be right back on this forum!