Cycled Sponge Filter Help

I bought a cycled sponge filter from Angels plus and they said to put fish in the tank once you get it, since it's already a cycled filter. Unfortunately plans didn't go through and I ended up not buying any fish for the tank which is a 10 gallon.
- So would it be okay if I were to just put fish food in the tank everyday for about 3 weeks until I get the fish that is meant for that 10 gallon?
- Or should I put a temporary fish in there? (Mind you the fish I plan on putting in the tank in about 3 weeks is really sensitive and I don't want to introduce any parasites to that tank. With that being said, can I put a snail or plants or something?)

 

Hello!

Yes, you are fine doing that; I’ve done the same thing when I planned to get fish, had a cycled sponge, and then plans fell through temporarily haha. Just make sure to clean until the old food every other day or so so it doesn’t completely rot.

And you’re free to add snails or plants. Just make sure the sponge can handle some ammonia (test without adding fish food. Add a good amount of fish food. Test the next day or the day after that to see if the bacteria is working)

 

KinsKicks
Ok great, I was hoping I didn't have to add fish yet lol (There's too much risks with these fish). Thank you so much!

 

Hmm. Any hints in this fish?

Also, I would either use a mystery snail or 2 or the fish food method.

 

Hmm. Any hints in this fish?

Also, I would either use a mystery snail or 2 or the fish food method.

You're gonna have to wait and see
I'm going to try and find mystery snails

 

You're gonna have to wait and see
I'm going to try and find mystery snails

Fish Gallery Houston usually has a lot of them.