s2dat

Hey guys

I am not a beginner per se but i am in the process of starting a 50 gallon tank and i had few questions regarding the process:

1) How long will it take in terms of days to seed the essential bacetria considering i plan to use the same filter pads from my established 29 gallon, same gravel and other decorations.

2) I am also interested in having a base layer of eco-complete and then possibly standard gravel. Would one bag be sufficient?

3)Its a used 50 gallon tank so i m not sure about the light fixture or the light installled but is it possible that anyone can give me recommendations, I prefer not to purchase a whole hood.

Thanks guys

aquarist48

Hello S2dat,

I recommend that you leave the seeded media/gravel/decorations in the new tank for at least 2 weeks. 3 to 4 weeks would be even better. You can add 2 or 3 fish (don't overstock!) immediately and you should have an instant cycle.

Always keep an eye on your readings in case of a mini cycle. It really depends on how much media you transfer over as to whether or not you have an instant cycle. (there is no set table as to how much to transfer). Be careful not to take so much bio media/gravel/ away from the established tank and cause it to go into a mini cycle.

Seeding a tank is always my first choice for cycling. I've had instant cycles and I've had mini cycles. By adding the seeded materials really cuts the cycling process down big time, if by chance you don't get an instant cycle. Be prepared for water changes just in case.

I'll let others respond on your additional questions.
Best of luck!
Ken