Hello,
I am new to this hobby and have been doing a great deal of research in preparation. I can tell you that it is no easy task because I am constantly faced with contradictory advice. I am almost ready to set up my new tank and have decided I want to do a fish-less cycle. I have read on the internet that in order to do this process I must add amounts of ammonia until the nitrite levels are 0 which can take up to 4 weeks. I then went into two local aquatic centres to get this confirmed. Both told me that adding ammonia is not necessary and all I need to do is set up the tank with live plants, rocks, ornaments etc, add the product that encourages bacteria growth in the filter, turn everything on and wait a few days. Following this I should take a sample of the water for testing to see if it's ready for fish. I am now confused. What is the correct process? I also have a product called Tetra Safe Start, should I use this?
I want to do this properly and humanely and will be striving to keep all my fish alive and happy so I am not in any rush to get the fish in the tank.
TIA
I am new to this hobby and have been doing a great deal of research in preparation. I can tell you that it is no easy task because I am constantly faced with contradictory advice. I am almost ready to set up my new tank and have decided I want to do a fish-less cycle. I have read on the internet that in order to do this process I must add amounts of ammonia until the nitrite levels are 0 which can take up to 4 weeks. I then went into two local aquatic centres to get this confirmed. Both told me that adding ammonia is not necessary and all I need to do is set up the tank with live plants, rocks, ornaments etc, add the product that encourages bacteria growth in the filter, turn everything on and wait a few days. Following this I should take a sample of the water for testing to see if it's ready for fish. I am now confused. What is the correct process? I also have a product called Tetra Safe Start, should I use this?
I want to do this properly and humanely and will be striving to keep all my fish alive and happy so I am not in any rush to get the fish in the tank.
TIA