I tried to cycle my tank with a fish (hadn't heard of fishless cycling until a few days ago) and I lost the fish
See previous thread if you want more details:
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f15/need-help-cycling-fish-104562.html
I'm starting over and doing a fishless cycle this time. First order of business is to get the cycle started. Am I right in thinking that I should do that asap in the tank that we had the fishy in? There's no need to take it apart and start totally from scratch, is there? Probably better not to I would think, since the bacteria might have already gotten a start in that tank, right?
Next, I'd like some opinions on what I can/should do with the setup I have. I have virtually no budget to work with so I'd like to know what's possible with the equipment I already have. I can spend a little, like maybe $50 right away, but I can save up for future upgrades.
Here's what I have
- 5gal hexagon tank kit Eclipse Hex 5
It has a light and a filter, but it does NOT have a heater. I'm not even sure how I'd mount one to the tank.
- API master test kit
- gravel, and an assortment of fake plants and decorations
- cheap but effective gravel vacuum
- old mini desktop aquarium kit Aquatic Gardens 1 Gallon Corner Aquarium Kit at PETCO
probably too small to be useful for much, but as far as I know all the parts still work
Anything you recommend investing in right away? And, the big question, what kinds of fish can I get when the tank is ready? I absolutely love goldfish and I'd love to have one. I know the 5gal is too small for golds for long term, but if I start with a tiny one, and start saving up for a bigger tank...? Does that sound reasonable? Or would I be better off putting something else in the 5gal and waiting until I have the bigger tank for golds?
See previous thread if you want more details:
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f15/need-help-cycling-fish-104562.html
I'm starting over and doing a fishless cycle this time. First order of business is to get the cycle started. Am I right in thinking that I should do that asap in the tank that we had the fishy in? There's no need to take it apart and start totally from scratch, is there? Probably better not to I would think, since the bacteria might have already gotten a start in that tank, right?
Next, I'd like some opinions on what I can/should do with the setup I have. I have virtually no budget to work with so I'd like to know what's possible with the equipment I already have. I can spend a little, like maybe $50 right away, but I can save up for future upgrades.
Here's what I have
- 5gal hexagon tank kit Eclipse Hex 5
It has a light and a filter, but it does NOT have a heater. I'm not even sure how I'd mount one to the tank.
- API master test kit
- gravel, and an assortment of fake plants and decorations
- cheap but effective gravel vacuum
- old mini desktop aquarium kit Aquatic Gardens 1 Gallon Corner Aquarium Kit at PETCO
probably too small to be useful for much, but as far as I know all the parts still work
Anything you recommend investing in right away? And, the big question, what kinds of fish can I get when the tank is ready? I absolutely love goldfish and I'd love to have one. I know the 5gal is too small for golds for long term, but if I start with a tiny one, and start saving up for a bigger tank...? Does that sound reasonable? Or would I be better off putting something else in the 5gal and waiting until I have the bigger tank for golds?