Do I need to cycle QT tank if I’ve added media from DT?

[BiggDirty]

Hi guys,

I’m in the process of setting up a QT tank (13.5 gal AIO). I plan on following Jay’s QT protocol when I get my first fish.

I just have a question about cycling, I’ve adding some biological media and a filter sponge which has been in my DT for over a month. With that said - do I need to still cycle my QT tank? Or should I be good to go?

I have some ammonium left over from when I cycled my main tank - should I be adding it to my QT? Or is this not needed?

Thanks!

 

[PezJunkie]

Shouldn't need to cycle. You only need to add ammonium if you're not going to add fish right away. Need to provide something for those nitrifying bacteria to eat.

 

[vetteguy53081]

Hi guys,

I’m in the process of setting up a QT tank (13.5 gal AIO). I plan on following Jay’s QT protocol when I get my first fish.

I just have a question about cycling, I’ve adding some biological media and a filter sponge which has been in my DT for over a month. With that said - do I need to still cycle my QT tank? Or should I be good to go?

I have some ammonium left over from when I cycled my main tank - should I be adding it to my QT? Or is this not needed?

Thanks!

No- it will help with denitrification and extend need for water change. Just be sure to monitor ammonia level with a reliable test kit. Do not add ammonia chloride as fish will build that level in the closed environment of 13 gals especially in a bare tank

 

[BiggDirty]

Thanks guys, that’s what I figured - I’ll leave it be!

 

[Jay Hemdal]

Thanks guys, that’s what I figured - I’ll leave it be!

Media that has only been in another tank for a month may not have enough bacteria living on it to reduce the ammonia produced in a QT, so be sure to monitor the ammonia during the process.