Nitrogen cycle

[Looby85]

Hello

After some years away, I have acquired a Fluval Roma 125 to keep a few fish.

I’m pretty sure I can get a filter media squeeze form the person I got the tank from as they were upgrading to a larger tank.

I’m not sure however, that once I start the fishless cycle, using Dr Tims Ammonium Chloride, what is the best time during the cycle to introduce the bacteria from a mature filter squeeze?

Also, the last time I did a fishless cycle, I used prawns inside a pair of tights suspended in the water. But it seems that bottled ammonia is used now to better control the cycle. And also adding fish food partway through the beginning of the cycle.
Is there any alternative to Dr Tims in the UK? Or is that the best bet?

Many thanks
Louise

 

[Byron]

If you can use Dr. Tim's, it is your best option here, but follow the directions and do not do anything not included in those directions. This product is scientifically proven to immediately start the nitrification cycle, if directions are followed. I believe they call for pure ammonia.

Never use filter media or similar from someone else's aquarium. You have no idea what pathogens might be transferred to your tank, causing various issues including fish diseases. I know aquarists who will not even use their own media from another tank, which shows how significant this can be.