"seeding" the cycle - With Water?

[tmpadmin]

I read about using gravel from a healthy established tank, spunge squeeze, etc. but I couldn't find any information if a bit of water from that tank would work just as well to get the bacteria up in a hurry. Would this be a just as good, not so good but will work or don't bother situation?

[PumaWard]

It would be a don't bother situation :).

Surfaces of the tank have the bacteria but the water column is pretty devoid of them.

[reignman40]

The bacteria isn't in the water itself, rather it's attached to the filter, gravel, decor, etc. Basically anything BUT the water will help boost a new cycle.

[tmpadmin]

This is what my assumptions were, but I swear I read somewhere that what someone starts a new tank they take a gallon of water from an existing tank which speeds the cycle.

Thanks for the answers!

[Blueiz]

It might slightly seed the atnk if you are starting from scratch, but it will not speed the cycle. All you need is one bacteria to start the cycle, regardless of where you get it from. Theres a good chance that you could get a few bacteria from the used water, but your best bet would be rocks, plants, fiter media, or a biowheel from an established tank. You still have to take into considration that the bacteria is stll going to have to multiply regardless of how much seed you put in there. Follow the link below t get some info on bacteria. Happy Fishkeeping !!

http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=57694&highlight=air+conditioner

[kveeti]

A bit of old water from your tank (or somebody’s you trust) could be used to start a population of planktonic life, although as stated, not to harvest nitrifying bacteria. All those neat little microscopic critters are part of a healthy aquarium, too.

[mooman]

A bit of old water from your tank (or somebody’s you trust) could be used to start a population of planktonic life

Excellent call! It might help you avoid a protracted bacterial bloom.