fishless cycle

[wt1961]

Hi
i wont to now if it's necessary to put sum bacteria source
in the tank to start a fishless cycle, or it can bee formed from the
water when i add the ammonia.

thanks

wt1961@scs-net.org

 

[OrionGirl]

There is no need to add a bacteria source, the bacteria come in with the water. If you can get a seed such as some gravel or filter media from an established healthy tank, the tank will cycle much quicker, but it will cycle without this kick start.

Avoid the bottled products, like Start Right and Cycle--they are snake oil, and tend to add undesirable things, with no solid proof of adding any bacteria. Bio-Spira is a new product, that must be refridgerated, and it has been getting favorable reviews from testers. This product doesn't require a long fishless period--it seems you add the product, and then add fish within a day.