Changing Gravel.

[Steffyboy]

Hi guys
 
Bit of advice please.
I've got a 4ft tank that's been going for nearly a year now and would like to change the gravel.
I have the 5-6mm gravel and am looking to swap it for the finer stuff i have in my other 2 tanks.
I know the gravel contains critical bacteria etc and have learned from past mistake when i sculpted hill mounds with it and disturbed the balance which created a cloudy tank for over a week!
What would be the best option for me to replace it with finer gravel?
I know bit by bit is one option but i don't want to get it mixed up.
Would a total swap of gravel in one be the worst mistake i could make?!!
Any help would be appreciated,
Cheers.

 

[Livewire88]

Hello, 
 
Your substrate will contain some bacteria however the bulk will be contained within your filter, you should be able to change all the substrate at once. As a precaution monitor the Ammonia/NitrIte levels for a few weeks and if required do water changes to keep the levels as close to zero as possible. 
 
I have changed my gravel a number of times and never encountered any issues. 
 
Cheers
Dan

 

[Steffyboy]

That's great news!
Thanks a lot Dan, cheers mate.