new 75 gal tank

[smallcrpt]

I'm getting a 75 gal tank this weekend and I'm going to go through the process of catching my pleco from my pond.
First off I know that's going to be a charm, he's about 8" big and black on a black bottom. w00h00.
First off, can I quick cycle my pond if i use pond water? That way he won't have to adjust to the temp and conditions.
I'll also need a filter for this tank, it has all the fun stuff, but no real filter, so if anyone knows a solid place to get filters on the cheap I'd love the info.
Also I have a few fantails and comets from the pond I might bring in, do you think they'll make the transition? I wont have proper time to cycle the tank for a few weeks because the water will be too cold for the pleco, the temps went fromt high 80's to low 70's and looks like its going to stay there for a bit.
Thanks for any heads up, I'm excited to get back into the FW tank world, I used to do it a lot when I was younger and my dad ran the tanks.
-chris

 

[MySpace Mike]

I recommend using new water for the tank. But if you have an already filter then use it on the tank for a faster cycling.

 

[smallcrpt]

If I dont' have the same filter as my father-in-law, can I just suspend a filter from his in mine? And I have anacharis and some floaters from the pond, will they help speed up the process.
Also, hopefully the guy i'm buying this from is keeping the gravel and driftwood wet, because wouldn't that also help it cycle quicker?
thanks
chris

 

[nickmcmechan]

i think you still need to cycle the tank properly before adding it whether you use seeded filter media or not...you must be at a place where you can get ammonia at 2ppm annd nitrites to zero within 24 hours...this may only take a few days if you use seeded media....but the point remains the same, you must still ensure your tank is cycled first

 

[Druu]

Try ebay for cheap filters- I was browsing there the other day and a few good ones are listed.

 

[smallcrpt]

kewl

I checked the prices online and ebay, but I think That Fish Place in Lancaster, Pa, which is an hour away is my best bet w/ a mag 350 for 80 bucks or a rena xp3 for 100.
Are they're any other good deals floating around which beat those for filtration in a 75 gal tank?
-chris
btw, i caught my 8" pleco and 7" upside down catfish from the pond w/ no harm done and they are in an established tank sucking the walls as we speak.. it was fun

 

[Rbishop]

Are you planning on keeping the goldies and pleco togehter in the same tank...?