jscroppo56@gmail.com

what i was wondering if I have a tank that is almost cycled and i buy a new 5 gal could i jump start the cycling process by using water from the almost cycled tank. I do water changes 4gal every 3 or 4 days.what i was thinking about doing is use the 4 gal OF OLD WATERfrom water change and use some gravel substrate from the old tank that im taking the water from.will this work or should i just stick to the proven methods..thanks again

aquaman555

You could use the water, there is not a ton of bacteria in freshwater, but it wouldn't hurt. Using gravel from another tank will definitely help jump start the cycle.

Tex Gal

You can jump start the cycle by using some mulm (dirty crud) from the filter. It will be loaded with healthy bacteria to help colonize your new tank. Plant the new tank heavy and thick. Do water changes and you are good to go- unless you use a substrate that might leech ammonia.