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My tank had only been set up for a week and a half, so I am assuming that it's still cycling, correct? My nitrites are high, not dangerous high, but higher than I'd like. What should I do to bring it down? Will it eventually bring itself under control when it blooms?

How much water is in the tank? Is it cloudy or smelly?

About 5 gallons and it's clear and doesn't stink.

Sounds like its still cycling. Let it be fore a few more weeks.

5 gallons? How big is the tank?

It's a 10 gallon tank. I did a 25% water change and added two more gallons today. So now there are 7 gallons now. Nitrites are still up about 3.0.

I take it this is a hatchling turtle? That's a really small tank and you will need to get a larger one.

I totally know that. It's two hatchlings and I plan on getting a 75 gallon tank in a few months. These were a surprise rescue and I had to get what I could for now. Thanks.

That's cool. Keep in mind Petco has sales for tanks $1 a gallon sales. Not sure how big of tanks they sell though. Well I knew but forgot! Hmmm old age..

the petco sales go up to the 55 gallon tanks. I suggest looking on craigslist personally. I got a 125 gallon tank and stand with some chemicals, light, and fish food for $100. I refinished the stand and it looks brand new. When I was looking there were plenty of people that wanted to get as much or more than they spent on their setups but there were also people that just wanted to get rid of their large tanks and make a couple bucks in doing so.

I was going to recommend a 40 gallon breeder. That would get you by for a year or two. Then you could sell it on Craig's list. Just what I did but I kept mine and I'm glad I did because I now have 2 Diamondbacks in that tank.

That's a good idea. I may do that! Thanks!

I found a friend with a 25 gallon tank for $15! That should buy me some time!

Nitrites are dropping! <happy dance!>

I think all of us as beginners went through the cycling syndrome. I don't check anything now because with the water changes I do I don't need to. Anyone need a test kit?:-) Joddog...And that 25 gallon will work for a bit but you might be surprised at how fast they grow!