Used dirty filter to help cycle tank?

[Trevdawg]

If I took a dirty pad/sock filter from a good running tank. Do you think that would help cycle my tank??
Even of I put the pad in my filter so the water runs through it instead of straight up in the tank...

Just a thought.

Also how long have you guys gone between starting the tank and first water change??

 

[Aquaph8]

It might help but you would get more surface area from a sponge IMO

 

[att]

yes it will help, you can cycle a tank with alot of things. I cycled mine with flake fish food, basically you need an ammonia source to start the cycling process.

 

[Trevdawg]

I will use fish food, a piece of shrimp, and a dirty filter pad. Lol

 

[h0ndap0w3r]

i used pure ammonia for one tank, worked like a charm

 

[islander84]

You need a source of bacteria to start with. Then you will need a source of ammonia to feed the bacteria.

Adding a filter sock from an established tank is a great way to transfer some bacteria!

 

[islander84]

Dont know if i would recommend adding pure ammonia...... Ammonia is pretty toxic at concentrated levels. I would stick with adding the source of bacteria then toss in piece of raw uncooked shrimp and couple of hermits.....

 

[Murfman]

Using Household Ammonia for Humane Cycling of a Tank

 

[Trevdawg]

Of the 75 gallons I put 20 gallons from an established friends tank. Took water from his water change. I do have some bacteria. Now to put something in there for it to feed on.

 

[fragmatic]

I will use fish food, a piece of shrimp, and a dirty filter pad. Lol

No need to add the fish food if you add the shrimp. The filter pad is about bacteria. The fish food and shrimp may be too much together.