Cichlid Fry began free swimming today. Should I move them to grow out tank now or?

[dlwn88]

Hey Everyone,

First time I've ever experienced this situation. I have a grow out tank that i plan on using for the Blue Acara fry that just became free swimming today. I have a sponge filter currently running in my 75g that's been there for a day and a half now.

How long should I leave the sponge filter in there so it will contain a good amount of beneficial bacteria when I move it to the other tank. I also plan on using the same water from the tank, right now it's empty. I'd imagine I'd be good to move gravel from the existing tank as well.

And should I wait a few days or is now a good time to start moving them over? I've read it's best to move over half or so.

Here are some photos for enjoyment!

Thanks,
Dave

 

[dlwn88]

Not trying to bump but I really don't want to screw this up. The free have been free swimming for a day now, is it okay to move them to a small tank, will they do okay if I bring over the same water and feed them baby brine shrimp?

 

[toddnbecka]

A divider would be better, at least until they grow a bit larger. Moving fry that small requires a siphon. A 29 would be good for spawning/growout until the fry reach 1".