Upgrade from 10 gallon to 20

I want to upgrade my tank from 10 gallon to 20. I was told different things from different source. Some say I have to cycle new tank for 2 weeks before adding fish, that would be a hassle. If I use the 10 gallon filter and some water from that tank, can I then add fish to new tank? Any wisdom?

 

You don't need to cycle another time if you aren't gonna add any more stock immediately.

My advice is to move everything from the 10 gallon over to the 20g, add your fish in and let the tank mature for a couple of months and let it stabilize, then you can start adding new stock

 

You don't need to cycle another time if you aren't gonna add any more stock immediately.

My advice is to move everything from the 10 gallon over to the 20 gallon, add your fish in and let the tank mature for a couple of months and let it stabilize, then you can start adding new stock

Thank you so much for the info that is what I will do. Will the fish be safe in a fish bowl while I make the change? I have no room to keep 2 tanks going. My experience is only 6 months so I'm a rookie.

 

A fishbowl should be fine but if you can use a bucket or larger container instead

 

If your ten gallon filter is cycled, it will still be cycled when you move it to the 20 gallon. I would not rinse the cartridges before the move or for a month afterwords, I would not even clean the filter in any way for awhile.
Keep the fish somewere that is large enough that they can swim some. depending on what species you have, you may want more then one container.

 

A fishbowl should be fine but if you can use a bucket or larger container instead

Yeah a bucket makes more sense to keep them safe. I should have started with a 20 gallon, but I didn't realize how much I enjoy keeping fish, 67 years old and just starting.