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just got a fish tank and want 2 know how long i have to keep it running(heating,filter) before i put2007-11-24 23:37:58Answers:

All mature fish tanks carry beneficial bacteria that converts fish waste (ammonia) into nitrites and then into nitrates. You have do to weekly water changes to keep the nitrates from becoming a problem (even though they are less harmful the the nitrites and ammonia). Until this cycle develops in your tank, you will have to be careful with the amount of a bio-load (fish) that you put in. Wait 48 hours after you put the water in the tank for the chlorine to evaporate then you can add your first fish. Choose one that is small and hardy to help start the cycle in your tank, then wait three or four days before you add the next one. Take a fresh water sample from your tank to the pet store before you buy your next fish for testing. They will tell you if the water is still good or not. If the water is still good then buy the next fish, if it is still spiking, do another water change and wait three days. You can safely add a fish every three or four days as long as the water is still within normal levels. Never change more then 25% of the water and make sure the water you add is at the same temperature as the tank or you will stress the fish and the bacteria.

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Simple when it is at the right temperature

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If you buy some starter bacteria culture from your local aqua store you canintroduce the fish in around a weeks time,but just start with a couple and then ad a couple more after two weeks or so,dont overpopulate the tank,its best to go by an inch of fish per gallon of water.

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most modern fish heaters automaticly turn themselves off at a certian temrperature, all u hav 2 do is set the temperature, and the filter should always be running

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most people say, 24-48 hours to cycle before your first fish. I would buy starter fish after that like neon tetras, they are hardy and docile. Wait a few weeks after your starter fish to buy more expensive fish. Make sure whatever you buy is docile enough to go in with the neon tetras, unless you don't mind your neons becoming a target or a meal.