Cycling a new 40gal tank?

[cartisdm]

How long should I expect it to take to cycle a new 40gal tank? I've read online lots of stuff but they all say stuff different (use fish, don't use fish, use chemicals, cycle for at least 3 months, etc.). I was going to just throw some rosie reds in the tank to cycle it then put my senegal in his new home and he can eat 'em

Any things I should watch out for and how long will this take approx.?

 

[guppy breeder]

with a 40 it should take about 4-5 weeks to cycle

 

[cartisdm]

So basically all I need to do is:

1. Clean tank etc.
2. Set up decor
3. Fill tank with 40gal water that's been treated with the basic fishsafe stuff
4. Install HOB filter with suggested filter pads
5. Insert like 10ish rosie reds
6. Run tank for a few weeks keeping an eye on the nitrate, nitrite and ammonia levels

Then once everything stays stable for a while I can add my fish? Let me know if I'm missing anything

 

[thrillbillie12]

i made a mistake with my 55 gal. i just filled it, treted the water, and threw in tetras and rosie reds. then like a week later i put my wolf fish in.that was before i knew about cycling tho, and for probly a month my water was always cloudy.

 

[is300zx]

http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=84598

 

[Dr Joe]

with a 40 it should take about 4-5 weeks to cycle

Then it would be cycled for that amount of bio-load (fish in your case), you then have to slowly increase the bio-load so the bactieria in the filter can grow to accommodate the increase.

It will depend on the size of the Senegal as to if the tank can support it at this time. A 2" in a 40g tank cycled with a dozen rosies probably ok, 8" Senegal may very well crash the filter and re-cycle the tank.

Take care, take time it's all about the fish.

Dr Joe

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