Tank Cycling Advice Needed :)

[pablothebetta]

I intend to buy an Aquastart 320 for my betta within a week or so, and I want to get it off to a good start. To be fair, I've never really properly cycled a tank before, as I just (unfortunately) follwed BiOrbs instructions when I first got my BiOrb - I'm so glad I know better now!

I intended to add some of the BiOrb sponge into the filter to get the bacteria going, and possibly a couple of pieces of the ceramic media too - is this ok? Would my BiOrb cope with only half a sponge for a short while, while the new tank gets set up?

I'm not entirely sure how to add ammonia into the tank - would some fish food work? I obviously want to try to get the tank cycled as quickly as possible, but want to make sure it's safe and set up properly before I put my betta in there. I've got some bacteria boost laying around, should I use that?

Thanks

 

[CezzaXV]

As long as you replace the sponge youre taking out it'll be fine. As for ammonia, you can buy it bottled. Have a look in the beginners resource section under Your New Freshwater Tank and it'll have most things you need to know, and feel free to ask questions on anything you're unsure of.

 

[This Old Spouse]

If you're using established media you shouldn't have to worry about adding ammonia to get it cycled, since the filter media already is cycled. The more experienced members of the forum don't recommend any kind of bottled "starter" because what you need is live bacteria, and there's no way to keep bacteria alive just sitting in a bottle with nothing to eat.

But as stated above, check out the beginner's section and ask all the questions you need!