second try

[Zacrupert]

A few months ago I tried to cycle an aquarium with fish because I didn't know about the nitrogen cycle until after I bought the fish. the fish all died, but I left the tank as is to try and complete cycling. Well, I forgot about the cycling tank and it was left with the water in it for about two months. Last week I cleaned the tank, the decorations, and the gravel, and completely changed the water in order to begin cycling again. Its been running since last week, and I haven't gotten an algae bloom yet. I was wondering if maybe the tank was already cycled from the last time with leftover bacteria on the gravel, or if I should wait the additional 3 or 4 weeks? Thanks for the help!

 

[librarygirl]

HI and welcome! Unfortunately, probably not. WIthout an ammonia source (either from fish waste or you adding ammonia manually) the tank wouldn't cycle (the bacteria need ammonia to feed on). You can do a fishless cycle but you'll need to start adding an ammonia source. Here's a couple of links for you:
Guide to Starting a Freshwater Aquarium - Aquarium Advice
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forum...guide-and-faq-to-fishless-cycling-148283.html