Questions from a newbie...

[ZomB]

Hi all..

Ive got a few questions with regards to my new tank. Been trying to do my research but there's a heck of a lot of info out there!

1st question is gravel/substrate related. Ive got some pea gravel which my LFS said i would be able to grow plants in. Do i need to get any additional substrate to suppliment this? Also can anyone recommend some very low maintenance plants for beginners? I want to try & keep my tank fairly low maintenance if i can!

Im also unsure about the whole cycle process. Im not in any sort of rush to get this ready for fish so i dont mind biding my time...the fish shop is only accross the road from me! Currently i've not got a light yet so i dont want to actually add any plants (probably for another 2 weeks). Basically what is the best way for me to do a fishless cycle?!? Should i wait to get my plants & light or is that not necessary? On a side note i got my filter 2nd hand & this was used in a marine set up. Will this help me add the bacteria i need?


Im making progress. Ive now got my tank filled with treated water, gravel & rocks. Ive got a heater that is off, an air pump & a leaking external filter! Once i get the filter fixed i'm looking to start the cycle & get the water ready...


Thanks in advance for any help & advice!

 

[EndlersEatGuppies]

here is info on the fishless cycle http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f15/fishless-cycling-for-dummies-103339.html

and for plants go herePlantGeek.net - Your Aquatic Plant Resource

 

[eco23]

Hey Fisheman! It's great you're gonna do a fishless cylce. Its definitely faster, easier and more humane than traditional stocking. I've got another link for you to check out too. It's the one my buddy and I used and we both completed the cycle in 20 days following it.
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f15/tips-and-tricks-for-your-fastest-fishless-cycle-86012.html

Good luck!

 

[eco23]

I just wrote and posted an article to hopefully answer some of your questions on fishless cycling-
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forum...guide-and-faq-to-fishless-cycling-148283.html

 

[ZomB]

Thanks eco23 (and eveyone else)...your guide looks brilliant. Had a quick read of it last night & i think this will become my official cycle guide! Thank you.

 

[Deckape]

Thanks eco23 (and eveyone else)...your guide looks brilliant. Had a quick read of it last night & i think this will become my official cycle guide! Thank you.

He worked hard on that guide. We finished cycling in 20 days. Let us know how its going and enjoy AA. Thanks for fishless cycling.