Aquarium Maturity

[restricted_alchemy]

When people talk about fish only being suitable for a mature tank, such as at least 6 months old. What is different from a six month old tank vs a one month old tank that is fully cycled?

Does several months really make any difference to the water composition once a tank is already established?

One reason I ask is because if I use mature filter media (from established tank) to set up a quaratine tank for new fish, surely this is not going to be 'mature' enough?

Thanks

Mike.

 

[Miss Wiggle]

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=187865&hl=

 

[ox5477]

Maturity is important for a tank that will house fish permanantly. For a hospital it is ok for the tank to be semi-unmature as the fish will only be in for a short period (a few weeks) while illness is treated or your sure the fish is healthy.

In a mature tank, microorganisms are fully developed all over the tank and the difference between die off and growth of bacteria in the filter has become basically zero. Usually you will have some algae growth in a mature tank as well

 

[raptorrex]

well i would say it is a tank that has been stable for six or more months! and you can feel a mature tank, rub your hand over the water line, you will feel the film that has built up over time. this may not be the reason the tank is mature, but imo it is the way to check it is!