Using filter media/cartridge

I need advice on how to get a new tank going with filter media and/or cartridges from a currently running tank.

You can use established media from an old tank in a new tank for an instant cycle.

What filter/media/tank sizes/fish are we working with?

The media would need to be enough to support the new tank. You cant take a small filter meant for a 10 gallon and put it on a 125 and expect it to do anything.

Just stick the the media in the new tanks filter if you want the old tank to still be going, only move half of it over

JuiceBox52 said:

Just stick the the media in the new tanks filter if you want the old tank to still be going, only move half of it over

Click to expand...

That's what I did when I started all this fish biz. Used the filter cartridge and 50% water to 50% treated tap water to start a 2nd 5g betta tank. Then expanded likewise to become:

one empty 20g

one running inhabited 10g
two running inhabited 6g
two running inhaboted 5g
one filtered and running 20l bucket as seen in the picture, with betta, with a breeder basket full of the media and cartridges

The used water wont do anything the bacteria lives on surfaces so all the water is doing is starting it out with nasties

JuiceBox52 said:

The used water wont do anything the bacteria lives on surfaces so all the water is doing is starting it out with nasties

Click to expand...

This is true. I usually use some water if there is fish involved so they have room to swim. It ends up being a large water change.

And one 3.5 shrimp tank! All starter with first beta tank.

The 20l is an old restaurant food storage container. At first I would just buy a new filter and just the older one to start the next tank. Until I had surplus, which I store there. I've had cause to use it for QT and I have just kept it running with plants and snails an occasional betta, etc.

So my question is, do I have what I need to move up to my 20g and get it going? What type of "cycle" would I require?