[BANANAHANDS]

I've read tons of threads about setting up a new tank and seeding from an old tank but I'd like to know step by step what to do. I'm completely new to fish keeping as would be apparent if i told you all my current stock list of my 29g. I want to upgrade from my already established 29g to a 55g. I'm setting up the 55g about 4ft from where the 29g already is so transferring anything over will be really easy. So what I would like to know is where to start. I have a penguin 200 on the 29g. I'll be running a fluval canister filter on the 55g. I don't know exactly what size filter, my brother in law is giving it to me and he says it will be more than enough. He hasn't used it in months so I'm starting from scratch. What should I do step by step. I don't want to move everything over all at once, plus I plan to keep the 29g up and running. I want to have the new tank cycled before I move my fish over so that if I add new fish they all get a chance to establish territory at the same time.
Oh and I know I'm asking a lot but is it possible to have the tank cycled and fish in it in about 17 days? my girlfriend is out of town and I would like to have it up and running before she gets back.
Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[Malawidolphin]

If I were you i would setup the 55 and fill it and get everything running. Transfer rocks and any decor. (Move your old filter at the same time that you move your fish) Run the new tank with both of your filters until the new filter seeds with bacteria or keep both on long term. Do not clean your old filter for at least a week before the change. I have run a 55g with Fluval 404 and an Aqua Clear 500 which both are rated, I believe, for 100gal. (never too much filtration) After about a month your new filter will probably be well established especially if you have added any new fish.

 

[acreal]

If possible you may also split the media from the established filter in two and put some in the unestablished one, while putting some from the unestablished one at the same time. That would cycle much faster IMO. Also remember that high level of oxygen concentration is useful in your case too.

 

[Rick_Lindsey]

If your current filter is sufficient for your current stocking levels in the 29 gallon tank, it will also be sufficient for your current stocking levels in a 55 gallon tank. As long as you're not adding any new fish, I'd just set up the 55 gallon, fill it with water, heat and treat the water to match the temperature and other water parameters of the 29 gallon tank. You can use the new filters to move the water while the tank is heating. At that point move the fish, decor, and filters. Voila!

-Rick (the armchair aquarist)

 

[hollyfish2000]

Don't forget Biospira. I've used it successfully several times, including during a move from a 30 to a 55. While I was moving the media over, I added it to the new tank anyway, adding some the day of the move over and more three days later. I never had any problems. I like the added security of Biospira and the peace of mind is worth a few bucks to me . . .