Swapping filter media to speed up cycling?...

[lkrav3]

We have two 10 gallon tanks that have been cycling for about 3 to 4 weeks now. One tank (let’s call it #1) has 3 serpae tetras and the other (#2) has 4 flame tetras. Tank #1 appears to be right at the end of the cycle – I expect to go home any day now, if not today, and find the ammonia and nitrite at 0ppm. Tank #2, however, still just shows the peak ammonia readings and not even a hint of nitrite after all this time.

The gravel in the tanks is a different color so I’d rather not do the “handful of healthy gravel” maneuver to speed things along in #2. Their filters, though, are identical. Would it be helpful if I swapped the filter media/cartridges? I presume this would help tank #2, but would it hurt tank #1 at this stage?

Thanks for any advice you can offer.

Luke

[StreetCypher]

I'd wait until your tanks are a little more established. It may throw things off if you swap media in newly cycled tanks.

[Watcher74]

If you don't want to mix up the gravel, then put the gravel from the cycled tank into pantyhose and place it in the uncycled tank.

[SDRANGER619]

or a small strainer maybe?

[daveedka]

I'd agree that it may be a little iffy to swap media, can you swapp part of the media while leaving the majority in place? Also gravel in pantyhose does work but your gravel is less effective than your filter media, so bear that in mind when deciding. Every little bit will help though.
dave