cycle question

My 20g tank has been running for 3 weeks. It has a waterfall filter with new foam over the intake pipe to aid in biologicals and one axolotl. The tank is new but the filter insert and 25% of the tank water came from the axies previous owners. There is one live plant and a ceramic hiding spot(covered with algae).
ammonia 0
nitrite is 15
nitrate is 60
PH is 7.6
I only have the test strips(yes I will get the better tests next week).
Does this reading mean that the tank is only half way through it's cycling process?
I have been doing a 20% dechlorinated water change every 5 days.
Tank temp F68
I know in a year this will seem a stupid question but I'm don't want a toxic place for my axie. I have read what I can about tank cycling but I don't want to make assumptions on an unfamiliar subject.

Hi nora,

Normally you would see a big ammonia spike in your readings and then start seeing some nitrates showing up, you have a good level of nitrates though at the top end of the range so I would say could be cycled or well on the way, but, post your readings when you get the new test kit the strip ones can be somewhat inaccurate and it will give a clearer picture.

I have the new testing kit. I think things maybe ok.

Ammonia 0
Nitrite 0
Nitrate 10
ph 7.6

I have done this test twice,five days apart. I think the tank has cycled.
Should I still do water changes every five days to keep the nitrates at a low level?

Hi Nora,

Your tank parameters are great. Your tank is cycled.

You would have to continue weekly water testing and 20% water changes regularly. The frequency will depend on your water parameters.

Nitrates are not as toxic as ammonia or nitrites. As long as they stay below 60, the axies should be fine. Problems only occur when they creep up over the 80 mark. They can cause water parameter changes, algae bloom and such.

Cheers.

I agree with Rayson

Your parameters are right out of the book.

Good Luck

I can enjoy my axie without obsessing about his water quality. Thank you!:happy:

Don't worry nora

They do plenty of weird things that make you wonder if its all ok. Its part of the joy of keeping them.

Good Luck