minahoggan
Aquarium Advice Apprentice
I've looked over several different threads concerning fishless cycling. All have mentioned the use of a filter to aerate the water and provide oxygen for the bacteria.
My problem is that bettas like very little to no water movement. So a filter (especially in a small 3.5 gallon tank) is very disruptive. As are airstones! So my question is... after the cycle is over, will the bacteria be okay if I remove the filter or turn it off once I put my fish in?
Also, many sites have also said that a piece of filter media from an already established/cycled tank is very beneficial. If I don't use any media, can I still get the bacteria to grow (with all the ammonia add-ins, etc. of course)? Basically, is media REALLY necessary?
Time is not necessarily an issue for me, so I'm not worried about the speediest way to cycle my tank. As long as I CAN maintain a cycle without the use of a filter (after the cycle has finished) and without introducing media into the environment?
Any advice would be most appreciated! I'd like to get the cycle started asap so I can go fish shopping!
Marina
My problem is that bettas like very little to no water movement. So a filter (especially in a small 3.5 gallon tank) is very disruptive. As are airstones! So my question is... after the cycle is over, will the bacteria be okay if I remove the filter or turn it off once I put my fish in?
Also, many sites have also said that a piece of filter media from an already established/cycled tank is very beneficial. If I don't use any media, can I still get the bacteria to grow (with all the ammonia add-ins, etc. of course)? Basically, is media REALLY necessary?
Time is not necessarily an issue for me, so I'm not worried about the speediest way to cycle my tank. As long as I CAN maintain a cycle without the use of a filter (after the cycle has finished) and without introducing media into the environment?
Any advice would be most appreciated! I'd like to get the cycle started asap so I can go fish shopping!
Marina