Changing tanks

[rob]

I have had my tank for about 6 weeks now, and its developed a leak (well I did get it for free). My silicon-ing skills being somewhat lacking, I just went and got another larger tank. All I have in my original tank is two zebra dinos, plus some gravel ect and an Aquaclear Mini filter. Seeing as the original tank is only 50L (13 gallons) and the new tank is 70L (19 gallons), will my tank need to re-cycle (due to the added water)? Any advice I should know before attempting the transfer?

Thanks,

Rob

 

[cutechic]

I have had my tank for about 6 weeks now, and its developed a leak (well I did get it for free). My silicon-ing skills being somewhat lacking, I just went and got another larger tank. All I have in my original tank is two zebra dinos, plus some gravel ect and an Aquaclear Mini filter. Seeing as the original tank is only 50L (13 gallons) and the new tank is 70L (19 gallons), will my tank need to re-cycle (due to the added water)? Any advice I should know before attempting the transfer?

Yes, if the new tank doesn't have any beneficial bacteria already established, it will need to be recycled. When you are ready to transfer your fish, first transfer the old filter (this will contain the majority of the bacteria and will therefore reduce the time of recycling). If possible, also transfer the gravel from the old tank to the new tank, as this will also contain bacteria. If you transfer both the filter and the gravel, the cycling in the new tank will be minimal.

Oh, and don't worry about putting the water from the old tank into the new tank. You can add half old water and half new (dechlorinated tap) water if you want, but water contains little of the bacteria your tank needs to cycle.

Hope I wasn't too confusing... it's late here )

 

[rob]

ha nah I get ya. Basically all the equipment from the old tank will be going into the new tank including the filter and gravel. I beleave the original filter can handle the new tank. It could be messy though..

Rob

 

[Inchworm]

Hi rob

I agree with cutechic.

Your AquaClear mini is a good filter, but it might be a bit small for your new tank if you heavily stock it. Even if you don't, it's a good idea to add a wad of filter floss to the chamber above the sponge. You don't need the charcoal, if you're still using it.

The floss will provide more surfaces for beneficial bacteria to cling to and will increase the efficiency of your filter. When it gets dirty, just rinse it out in tank water, just like you do with the sponge. They will both last a long time before you have to replace them.