Freshwater Filtration Question

[lee914]

XP2 is plenty for a 36g (also depends on the amount of fish you will have) as long as you stock within reason, and cycling the tank will give you the beneficial bacteria you need so when you do add fish the ammonia/ nitrite can be broken down easier.

 

[JSchmidt]

Originally posted by 177ichael
The fishless cycle sounds very interesting to me. Will bacteria begin to grow without any ammonia additive? If so, is it possible to cycle my tank and build up the bacteria so that when I do add fish, there will be sufficient amounts of bacteria to convert the ammonia to nitrites/nitrates? Also, is the XP2 filter action enough to create sustained O2 levels or do I need an aerator for a 36g tank?

Michael

From the FW Newbies "stickies" section: everything you ever wanted to know, and more, about cycling your tank. Enjoy!

Jim