55 gallon tank help!

[Vikki81207]

Okay I'm on my way to go pick up a free 55 gallon with filter and accesories. I need to know about cycling and if it's needed. And if not, how to do set up and stuff.

[fishyinpa]

You should cycle it. A 55 shouldnt take long at all to do so.. Does it come with any equipment?

[Vikki81207]

I don't know or understand anything about cycling. But I did get the tank. Here's what it came with.

55 gallon long
filter
filter cartridges
heater
lots of gang valves
gravel vac
weekend feeders
castle decoration
nets
Algae cleaner
Air pump
lights with hood

Posted a pic

All I need is a stand and I can set it all up. I can't believe I got this all for free. I feel great. I can't wait to set it up.

[Rohland]

okay well you will need a test kit to watch your cycle.
There is many ways to fully cycle your aquarium... fish, fishless (fish food or ammonia).
However the easiest way, to get all that bacteria started right away is to use Seachem Cycle or similar varaities. Byron and Me have both used this and it works great. Byron had something happen in his tank (115 gals) emptied it all, cleaned and placed the fish back in the same day. No deaths. So its very useful.

So jealous all these tanks for free :O

[Vikki81207]

Yeah I bet thats pretty expensive though. I have like no money. What exactly is everything supposed to be in the tank? I'll have to get a kit too. I have ammonia test strips. Can you tell me how to cycle with fish food or whatever?? I need whatever help I can get.

[dramaqueen]

Yeah, you'll definitely need to cycle something that big. Congrats!

[Vikki81207]

This stuff?
http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...ductId=2753903

[Vikki81207]

Originally Posted by dramaqueen

Yeah, you'll definitely need to cycle something that big. Congrats!

Thanks so much! I'm so happy!

[Rohland]

yes that was it. Sorry another brand uses the name cycle. Its not too expensive and gets the job done.

[AlexXx]

Rohland, could i add that AFTER i strarted cycling... this is taking SO long....

Congratz vikki!! looks amazing! im so jealous! cant wait to see pics of it set up!