Cycling idea

[piper]

Hello all.

Hope this aint to stupid an idea, but I in the research process at the mo. Was just wondering if it would be possible to cycle my new tank (to be built around 50-60 Gal aint decided on final size yet), with some gold fish.

Nice hardy fish that I could put into my pond after the cycle period. This way I don’t risk loosing any fish or having fish that I don’t really want after the cycle period.

Any comments would be appreciated>

Andy

 

[rdd1952]

Gold fish are hardy and would probably make it through a cycle BUT it would be very slow. Goldfish are coldwater fish and bacteria developes quicker at higher temps. That's why during a fishless cycle you turn the heater up to the mid to upper 80s. Also, a tank is only cycled for the number of fish in the tank. So if you put 3 small GF in and cycle, you will probably be cycled for about 6 small tropicals (GF are messy so you would be cycled for more than the 3 fish in there). Fishless cycle is definitely the way to go.

 

[modernhamlet]

What rdd said.

 

[cyprinut]

Yep- another vote for fishless. Why put the goldfish through that?
*edited for spelling*

 

[jfrancho]

I'd like to add that your typical comet goldfish has likely been through some inclement conditions before they are taken home, and are very likely stressed, and harbouring some active pathogens. I'd wouldn't want to introduce that to a new tank. Also, although they can tolorate high nutrient levels in the water, they prefer cool, clean, well oxygenated water, so why put them them through the ordeal, even if they are doomed to be fed to larger piscivores. I say another vote for fishless break in.

 

[piper]

I was thinking of taking the GF from my pond then returning them, but it don’t matter now seems opinion has voted the fishless cycle in. Lets hope I can resist that empty tank, I have to walk past my lfs every day to and from work.