how long for ammonia to go down

[Casaloxl]

I have 2 axies in a 120L tank 38"x18"x14" CF700 cannister filter (spray arm of 1.5 ft attached so no current) 7 vallis plants and 2 inch slow airstone, my temp is between 18-23 which according to the article in caudata culture is acceptable. please dont tell me to lower the temp, because I will not, the article states it is acceptable and they are very healthy as the local vet (deals with axies often) who gives them a checkup agrees.
No substrate, bar about 10 big river stones about 2 inch in diameter. a cave and barrel for hidey holes

My axies are very healthy, perfect size and shape, no stress, or fungi, ever...

after 2 months of cycling we now read (old tank developed leaks.. so had to move them quick)

ammonia 2
nitrite .25
nitrate 10
Ph 7.8



am doing 10% water changes everyday

how long should it take for the ammonia to go down... they get fed 1 earthworm every 2 days each, I pull out the bits of plant that fall off and vaucuum up every day with turkey baster the little bits of disintegrated poops and mauled leaves..

 

[madeve]

I have been cycling for about as long as you have without any axies in my tank and my amonia just went down to 0 ppms a few days ago my other readings are similar to yours. From what I read it's a waiting game. I'm sure some more knowledgeable person might give you more specifics but I think you're doing things right for now.

 

[gr33neyes]

Ammonia and nitrite are naturally occurring, but relatively harmful compounds, Nitrate is relatively safe. When you first start cycling all these things take time to level out and settle. The bacteria that begin the process are the nitrosomas, these reproduce every 8 hours and convert ammonia to nitrites, this should take around 10 days during which time ammonia levels may be high. Frequent partial water changes will help. after 10 days another type of bacteria start to take over (nitrobacter) this converts the nitrites into nitrates, this takes around 30 days. again frequent partial water changes all help this process. Once all the friendly bacteria establish themselves your ammonia levels should be kept in check unless something happens to reduce these levels.

 

[Casaloxl]

cool thanks, that actually answers a few questions... muchly appreciated...

just thought i would share my readings about the temp...

" In captivity, any temperature between 14 and 22°C (57 to 72°F) is reasonable for adults. Any temperature over 25°C (77°F) is unsuitable for anything more than a few days. "

http://www.caudata.org/cc/species/Ambystoma/A_mexicanum.shtml

 

[Casaloxl]

ammoia down to 0 now... nitrite down nitrate up..

thank you..