How to keep a tank cycled with no fish

[GallonsOfFun]

Sadly, my betta passed away in my 10 gallon. I don't plan on adding any fish until the new year, will just focus on the plants until then.

What is the best way to keep it cycled? It will have a Nerite snail in it but that's it. I know the "best" way it to dose with ammonia but I'm going to be away for Thanksgiving and Christmas, so I'd prefer something I can leave in the tank. I know people use fish flakes (heard some bad things about these, though), shrimp, etc. What's my best bet?


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[ScotJudd]

If it wasn't for the snail I would dose to 4ppm with ammonia just prior to going away and then re-dose on your return. The bacteria will be fine for a couple of weeks and could then do with building up a little on your return.
However, I don't know about using ammonia with snails. Perhaps someone else can chip in.


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[GallonsOfFun]

I could a.) take the snail back to the store or b.) keep it in a small betta bowl. I will be away for 2 weeks over Christmas, will that be enough ammonia?


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[GallonsOfFun]

Any suggestions guys? Seems like I have two options:

Take the snail out and dose 4ppm ammonia before I go away (will this be enough for 2 weeks?)

OR

Keep the snail in and add dead shrimp. Will this work and would a frozen shrimp be ok?


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[just_doitman]

Take snail out and dose ammonium and you might shoot for 5/6 with that amount of time it will surely be fine


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