Starting new quarantine tips

[soko]

Bought a 10 gallon today, have AC100, and 100watt heater all new, not going to use any gravel, looking for tips on the quickest (and cheapest) way to cycle the tank so I can put fish in it.

I have an established 50 gallon tank already.

 

[tomm10]

The fastest way would be to take some filter material from your established tank, swish it around in the tank then either put it in your new tank's filter or leave it in the corner of the tank for a few weeks.

The bacteria in the filter media should colonize the new tank happily as long as you give them something to eat. You'll need to put some fish in there soon or start dosing with ammonia until you're ready to add fish.

Tom

 

[sigmatauntaylor]

YOu could also try Bio-Spira if you can find it, i think it can be found someplaces online for $15. Just have to remember to keep the bacteria fed!

 

[Hound]

If you are using a HOB type filter one possiblity would be to put the filter for your AC 100 inside the chamber of your current HOB filter. That way some bio material will grow right on it and when you need it in your quarantine tank you'll have it ready and available. You have to remember that once the tank is cycled if you don't have any fish in it then the helpful bacteria won't have any food.

 

[soko]

Hound, what a great idea. Thanks!