How Long

[mr130gallon]

i am wondering how long a tank has to be set up before its safe to put neon tetras in it, i heard it needs to be mature, but how long is that?

 

[ZoddyZod]

i am wondering how long a tank has to be set up before its safe to put neon tetras in it, i heard it needs to be mature, but how long is that?

I'm guessing there is no accurate answer to that as the water chemistry/content has not been defined or researched to show what is required for it to be 'mature'. 6 months is probably just a rough 'finger in the air' length of time to say that a tank has settled down for long enough for the more delicate fish to be added.

Would be interested if there is any actual science behind this timeframe though?

I put neons in last weekend, and my tank has been going for 3 months (forgot about the 6 month 'rule' for neons). All seem to be doing fine.

 

[aly_starh]

Yes, most people recommend around 6 months.

 

[JustKia]

Can only speak from personal experience...
May tank was about 6 weeks from having being cycled when I put my neon tetras in and they're just fine =)

 

[mr130gallon]

ok, thats another 4 months then, though i am getting 4 neons from my cousin because of the 20 he had his blood parrot ate 16, so i will buy another 3 as well so then there is enough for a tiny school, so but the others ill wait for.