Cycling a used tank

[logansmomma1228]

The tank I am getting on Saturday had fish in it before, but not for 2 years. Does it need to be cycled again just like a new tank? Hopefully not. lol

 

[BigJim]

Sorry to break it to you, but all those nitrifying bacteria are dead. You have to cycle again.

 

[harmy4993]

its not so much the tank your cycling or the water. its the filtration system. the sand, the rocks, the filter. if you dont cycle those your fish will be poisoned

 

[taylorodw]

The good news is that, since all your tanks are empty and cycling, there are no diseases or parasites in them. Since that is the case, once one tank starts to show nitrates, you can scoop out gravel and seed the rest of your tanks. Your cycle will be super quick at that point.

 

[mommytron]

yes, what a bummer.... just make sure you clean it really well with water and vinegar. i'm not sure if fish diseases can last that long but why take any chances!