How Do I Move To A New But Used Tank/eggs, Too

[clcruze]

Sorry, if this has already been answered. I am fairly new to aquariums. I have a 20 gallon that is at capacity and my kribensis cichlids laid eggs. I bought a 55 gallon that was used by a turtle. It has a lot of pebbles in it. Should wash out the whole tank and all the rock or what? I know that I need to let the "new" tank cycle for atleast 24 hours and get the water and temp the same as the old tank, but I'm not sure about any bacteria that might be in the "new" tank. Also, I was hoping to move the rock with the eggs on it and the parents before they hatch, is that ok? They just laid them yesterday. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Man of fish]

Well how long was the filter not in use? If it's been used it's best to move the fish in now I'd also add your old filter on just to be sure since your filter is already cycled. I'm assuming fish-in cycle since you said you only needed 24 hours to cycle. That's not the case. Take a look at our beginners resource centre for more info on cycling, compatibility, etc etc!

 

[clcruze]

I read that I should set up my tank and let it sit for atleast a day, but as I read more and more I am seeing two weeks, a month. I am so confused. Everywhere I read says something different. Drop them in, drip acclimate them...I don't know. I'm guessing I should take out the old rocks and clean them bc it might elevate the nitrates more than the old tank. I read that, too. I'll just keep reading and trying to decipher, I guess.

I mean clean the "new" rocks

 

[clcruze]

Ok, I found the thread with all the pinned set up info. I wish I had seen that earlier. So hereis what I am wondering. I have two identical filters, only one is used, could I use the spare one with the old media in the new tank, of course along with the "new" filter that came with the new tank to speed up the cycling. Also, I'm confused about cleaning the substrate from the new tank now. It had a turtle in it. Should I just leave it alone?....I'm so new it hurts!

 

[Man of fish]

Well I'd definately use your old filter from the 20 along with the "new" filter because your old one can already handle the bioload.