Running new filter on established tank

[heemskn]

I bought my first ever canister filter (cheap SunSun 302) for a 29 planted that I want to set up. I have a an established 55g turtle/cichlid tank with sump and a DIY wet/dry filter.

Can I get a headstart on cycling the new tank by running the new canister on the turtle tank for a while (in parralel with the DIY filter)?

How long for the good bacteria to establish themselves in the canister bio media?

Would I be importing any algae or other nasties from the turtle tank to the new tank, or will I get those anyway when I put plants and fish in?

Thanks

 

[jsoong]

If your other tank is healthy, by all means run a new filter (or just put the filter pad in your existing filter) to seed it. It will take a few weeks to fully seed. And any disease will be transferred to your new tank. <I wouldn't worry about algae, that spread by spores, which is in the air & water, etc...>

 

[mgamer20o0]

i would set it up let it run a couple weeks then switch it. depending on your stocking levels you still might have to cycle the tank still. i would switch it over and do fishless cycle that should cut the time down to 1-2 weeks. again like jsoong said as long as the tank is healthy and everything is fine go for it.