Is It Possible That My Tank Is Cycled Already?

[GreenA]

p.s. moving hard water fish to soft water is not a good idea, unlike the other way around. Many hard water fish can not do well for long in soft water: this is most commonly seen in livebearers. For more information, read about osmoregulation.

Hey KittyKat.

I have had a read about osmoregulation, thanks for that, that was very interesting. Especially since I intend to keep the Mollies. And I read that they do prefer harder water so I can not soften the water. However, I also read that fish that prefer softer water are more adaptable to harder water; and as my LFS breeds even his soft-water fish in harder water (same as mine) they would therefore be more suitable. My problem is, however, that I would not want my fish to struggle with growth and metabolism as I guess it will affect them to a certain degree in the long run. I do not intend to breed my fish but I also wouldn't want to deprive them of a natural habitat just because I want to keep different types of fish together, that would just be selfish.

I think it is a good idea to give my lifebearers to my friend once she is done cycling and use this time research properly. Thanks again for all your help.