Beginner Here... Media Question

[donny7]

Hello all. If I understand correctly filter media is bacteria from the tank accumulated within the filter correct? Can media from any tropical tank be used? My buddy has an Oscar in a big tank. I am currently unsure what fish to et but I would like to introduce media.

 

[Warehouse]

Hi Donny and welcome. Perhaps you could expand a bit on your own setup, I presume it's a new tank and filter? If it is then the very best thing you can do for the tank cycling is to add some "mature" media from an established filter. As long as the tanks are both freshwater then no problems whatsoever.

If you haven't already, take a look at the beginners resource centre.

 

[KittyKat]

Do read the resource centre, especially about cycling.

Media is what is inside the filter, which includes sponges, ceramic balls, ceramic noodles.. this is where the bacteria live.

"Seeding" is when we take *some* media from an existing set-up and put it into a new filter to help with the cycling. It is impossible to tell how much you would need for a new tank and how much bacteria live in your friend's media.

I suggest, you do a fish-less cycle, but seeding your own filter. It will be useful for you to understand and see how a fish-less cycle works in practice, there is a lot you can learn from it. Seeding the filter may speed it up by as much as a week or more and you will be able to go straight for your final stocking that way, instead of only being able to add 1-2 fish every week.

If you post your tank dimensions and your tap water parameters, we will be able to help with the stocking.

 

[waterdrop]

Agree with KK. Good advice and nice writeup. WD