How much ammonia for 5gal cycle?

[emeltee]

I'm going to cycle my 5 gallon tank using pure ammonia. How much do I put in a time? I have a piece of shrimp, but it's not raising the ammonia to above 1ppm.

[BlueHaven]

I believe 2-4 drops.
Here is a link:
http://www.fishlore.com/fishforum/aq...less-tank.html
I used this and so far it is working....though mine is taking longer than usual because it is cold waters and I may have missed a drop.....

[celine18]

you just have to test it, trial and error...i've had a few times where i've added enough ammonia to raise the level to 8, and i don't think it really had any effect other than my not having to add any more for a few days.

also, i would use a small liquid measure, with mLs, and start at 1 mL and work your way up until you see how a mL corresponds with ammonia levels. just pouring from the bottle isn't too precise (ahem....note comment about a level of 8, haha).

also, be SURE your ammonia only includes ammonia hydroxide, no surfacants. this is a mistake i made....its not fun to have to tear the tank down and clean and start all over again, so check your ammonia before you start :)

Edit: and yes, heated water will make a HUGE difference, as BlueHaven mentioned. my tank's almost finished its cycled (2nd attempt) after about a week because i have the temp up at 83*.

[emeltee]

That was a very helpful link. Thanks for posting!

Now I have to go hunt down a medicine dropper.