Upgrading from 5 to 15 gal

I have a semi- established 5 gal aquarium, but need to upgrade to 15. I can transfer all substrate, live plants, water, and decor over to the new tank. I can dechlorinate all the extra water I'll need, but can't switch the filter over till I actually switch the fish (I only have the one filter). Will the new aquarium try to cycle or will the bacteria switched over from the old tank be able to hold it steady enough? I know to test the water as the new tank adjusts, but is there any surprises I should watch out for?

 

I have a semi- established 5 gal aquarium, but need to upgrade to 15. I can transfer all substrate, live plants, water, and decor over to the new tank. I can dechlorinate all the extra water I'll need, but can't switch the filter over till I actually switch the fish (I only have the one filter). Will the new aquarium try to cycle or will the bacteria switched over from the old tank be able to hold it steady enough? I know to test the water as the new tank adjusts, but is there any surprises I should watch out for?

I believe you’ll be able to put the fish in the same day (after moving the filter and letting it run to cycle) so you’re probably fine

 

Ok thank you!

 

Masspanic is correct. If you move the filter, along with the media, straight from the old tank to the new one it should be able to immediately handle the same bioload that was in the smaller tank.

 

One additional thing, if the filter in the 5g isn't rated for a tank of at least 15 gallons, you could have a problem. If the pump is under-rated, you will not be moving enough water thru the filter to have all the ammonia and nitrite converted by the repective bacteria.

 

The filter is for 10 gal. I plan to replace it with a new filter after the new tank settles. I have live plants and with water changes I'm hoping the small filter will last till the new filter comes in