Using Existing Tank To Cycle New Tank

[BeezerGeezer]

I have a new tank on order and obviously will need to cycle it before I can transfer the horde across. I was wondering if I cab use anything from the established setup to cycle the new one.

 

[slimeneo]

Use the filter media

 

[markandjanice]

I have a new tank on order and obviously will need to cycle it before I can transfer the horde across. I was wondering if I cab use anything from the established setup to cycle the new one.

im doin the exact same on saturday, however im going to put the current internal filter in the tank and also rig up my new all singing all dancing external filter, run both at same time then eventually get shot of the internal...not sure of the internal model at mo, but my new external is an ex1200 if anyone has any ideas, id be grateful also

 

[BeezerGeezer]

My new 'un is an EX1200 also. I had thought about using media from the existing filter, but wouldn't that impair it's function? The tank is right on the limit with stock levels. I also thought about putting some of the new media into the existing filter which would allow it to become bacteria loaded, however, when it goes into the new tank with no fish or associated by products how is the process perpetuated? Add ammonia I guess and wait for it to ne processed?

 

[slimeneo]

Oh, you can just cut half of the old filter media and put it in the new one, I suppose you could put new media into the old one to allow bacteria to grow on it also (but not sure how long that would take). If you put the old media into the new filter, add ammonia or fish flakes and test the water. The bacteria will need ammonia (their food) to survive, of course.

 

[BeezerGeezer]

Ok, thanks chaps.

 

[markandjanice]

my problem is i am moving a current setup including fish from one house to another up the road. as soon as i get back to my house i'll be rigging the tank back up, putting gravel, water, etc back in and then putting current the internal filter/heater back in the tank. once this is rigged up and running i'm going to install the new external heater/filter am i ok running these both together for a period of time then remove the internal items?

 

[BeezerGeezer]

I'm no expert, but I don't see why not. As long as the bacteria in the internal filter stays good through the move. The new filter will presumably grow its own bacteria In time. Not sure how to tell when it's cycled though, 'coz the internal filter will still be doing the work for you. I'm going to start putting the bio balls from the EX in my current filter, hopefully they will get loaded with bacteria whilst I await the arrival of the new tank.