how long to cycle

[jackm]

hi
i was wondering how long it would take 3 zebra danios to cycle my small 26 litre tank so i can put some lamprologus in to breed.
thanks jack

 

[FawnN]

Generally, it will take about 3 weeks to cycle a tank. You can cut down on the cycling time and possibly get an instant cycle, if you have a seasoned filter to put in your 26 gallon.

 

[Tiffi]

With all the pwc you would have to make to keep those fishes alive, it will probably take longer than cycling it fishless. You could add some pure ammonia, fishfood or raw, unseasoned shrimp from the grocery store to cycle.

 

[FawnN]

Actually it would take about the same amount of time to do it either way. IMO, the only difference is that cycling with fish is a lot of work and a lot of stress on the fish.

 

[Tiffi]

Yes, but he has a running aquarium with filter material. That way he might be able to speed up the cycle and do it fishless.

 

[malkore]

Also, I've seen cycles take over 8 weeks to complete...so I'd say 4-6 weeks on average, if you're not using any seasoned filter media, gravel or decorations in the new tank.