Cycle of a second hand tank

[Phate06]

Hi I have read all about the cycling of a new tank, but what if I am using a second hand tank that was still in operation just before I took it? I would keep the filter media within the filter, keep the gravel and take some of the water. What's the process for that?

Thank you


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[fluttermoth]

You will still need some liquid ammonia so you can see if the bacteria are still alive and working.

Add enough ammonia to give you 2 or 3 PPM then test again after twelve hours. If there is no ammonia or nitrite present then, you're okay to stock.

At a pinch, you could put a prawn (or some fish food, but a prawn would be better) in a bucket of water for a few days, until you get a reading for ammonia, and add that water to the tank instead of using 'pure' ammonia.

 

[Phate06]

Thank you I'll give thAt a go


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