Fishless cycling

[Roger L.]

Does a smaller tank cycle faster than a large tank? If this is true I was thinking I could add it to the bigger tank once the cycle began?

[keith_r]

not really... the real factors are the amount of ammonia (to high and it inhibits the bacteria that convert it)
once you have a system cycled, the best way to "kickster" a new system would be to take media from the cycled system and put it into the uncycled system.. it will shorten the time some, but it won't be immediate

[Roger L.]

Nitrites are beginning to come up in my tank finally. I believe my ammonia got to high so I did a big water change and now I see some progress. I have added a bunch of guppies to be sure the fish will survive and have Tilapia coming in. I'm very excited to finally get every aspect of the system in place. Hoping the nitrates follow right behind this action and the cycling will regulate.

[Roger L.]

Guppies all still alive. Tilapia received this morning, just one floater. All others acclimated and schooling around in their new home. One little guy seems to like to swim alone, I kind of like him/her.

[davidstcldfl]

[eddiemigue]

Gratz on the fish arrival!

[Roger L.]

Thanks Eddie. So far so good. I've kept them alive and seemingly happy.

[JCO]

Good luck with your Tilapia

[Roger L.]

Thanks JCO. I have to watch myself, just like the watched pot not boiling, I bet watched fish won't grow.

[JCO]