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Setting up a 36 gal fish tank Need advice about tank and fish2007-11-24 23:40:13

I made many mistakes with my 5 gallon tank and would like to not repeat them with my new 36 gallon tank. I've already got the filter, heater, gravel, air pumps/air stones and water in. All chemical levels are fine and heater is working. The heater is set to 79 degrees, the gravel was rinsed before being put in, and I treated my tap water with Stress Coat (10 ml. per 10 gallons or 4 caps worth). I planted four small plants. How long should the tank operate before adding fish? I've heard 24 hrs., 48 hrs., and 3 to 5 days from different aquatic stores. Please give me an explaination with your answer as to how long I should wait so I understand - since I've heard so many different ideas, I'm not sure what to believe. I'm not in a hurry to rush out and buy fish - I'm willing to wait to do this right. Also, I'd like to know what some good starter fish are that won't be aggressive. I'm used to using guppies but would like somethign different. I will not consider goldfish as they're dirty.

Answers:

I don't understand why people say to let it sit. It doesn't cycle unless you either add pure ammonia and do a fishless cycle or add a few starter fish and keep a close eye on the params. If you want to lose the fewest fish then do a fishless cycle. http://badmanstropicalfish.com/articles/.

if you don't understand that site there are a bunch that may explain it differently. I know a lot of people who are new to the fish world don't understand the cycle right away.

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well let it sit about two days (thats what i did)