How to Seed a New Fish Tank with Beneficial Bacteria

There are three main ways to start a new fish tank and get it ready for the introduction of fish. One, you set up the tank and just add the fish. Two, you do fishless cycling using liquid amomnia and time. And three, you jump start the cycle by seeding the new fish tank with beneficial bacteria. The third is the quickest way of getting a healthy aquarium water balance.

Seed a New Fish Tank - Materials Needed

In order to seed a new fish tank with beneficial bacteria from an established home aquarium, you will need some of the stuff that has been in the old aquarium for a long time already. This can be filter media, gravel from the bottom of the tank, rocks, or decorations. The highest concentration of beneficial bacteria happens in the gravel or substrate, and the filter media.

If you plan on removing the gravel, media, or decoration after its purpose is served, you will also need something to hold it. A leg of nylon stocking works well for gravel. For larger items, you can use a net or even plastic netting that onions come in from the market. Wash everything very well in tank water before using.

Seed a New Fish Tank - Getting Started

To begin seeding a new fish tank with beneficial bacteria, set up the new tank exactly how you want it for the new fish. Attach the filter, lights, heater, and anything else and get them running. Do not add fish yet.

Remove the bacteria laden item or items from the old fish tank. Do not wash them or rinse them with tap water. The chemicals in tap water can kill the beneficial bacteria. If you will be putting them permanently in the new fish tank, simply arrange them as you like. Old gravel can be put directly on top of the new gravel, or dug in slightly.

If you will be removing the old fish tank items, put them in the stockings, nets, or other holders and drop or suspend them in the new fish tank. Keep them there while you cycle the tank. Remember that these bacterium need ammonia and nitrites to survive.

Seed a New Fish Tank - Why and How

Why should you seed a new fish tank with beneficial bacteria anyway? The answer is one that all good aquarium owners should always consider: the health of your fish. Fish excrete ammonia, a poisonous substance that can build up in a fish tank and kill off the inhabitants. Beneficial bacteria in a fish tank work to transform the ammonia into compounds that are more usable, especially to live plants. The bacteria is part of a successful fish tank ecosystem.