how to cycle?

[ScuitoAmi150]

You guys told me I should cycle my new 1 1/2g tank. I now know what it is. But I still don't know HOW to do that. In the two articles I've read it hasn't said anything about HOW to cycle a tank.

Help?

[ErnieB]

Originally Posted by ScuitoAmi150

You guys told me I should cycle my new 1 1/2g tank. I now know what it is. But I still don't know HOW to do that. In the two articles I've read it hasn't said anything about HOW to cycle a tank.

Help?

There are many good articles on HOW to cycle a tank, just google for it. I dont want to post any links as im new and not sure of forum rules as many of these are posts from other forums. If your tank has a filter then you will want to cycle it. If its just a "jar/critterkeeper" you will just have to do frequent 100% water changes instead.

You can do it fishless or with fish. Obviously the more humane way is fishless. Basically you introduce ammonia to the water ( either via fish and their waste or actual 100% ammonia with no surfacants ). Use your master liquid test kit to monitor the water and if doing it with fish, do water changes when appropriate. The whole process will take approximately a month.

Thats it in a nutshell. For more specifics i suggest doing a quick google search. You can also pm me and i will share a link or 2 i have to specific articles on different sites with the info.

[ScuitoAmi150]

My 1.5g doesn't have a filter. I do 40% water changes every other day and 100% once to twice a week in my current tank

[ErnieB]

Originally Posted by ScuitoAmi150

My 1.5g doesn't have a filter. I do 40% water changes every other day and 100% once to twice a week in my current tank

I would say you dont need to cycle the 1.5g then. Just make sure you do the water changes. ( and condition the new water ) And you want to try to keep the water the same temperature each water change as well.

[ScuitoAmi150]

Yeah, I know. I have three bettas so I keep the new water out for a day so its the same temperature. They are getting adjustable heaters, also. My teacher bio suggested cycling a tank

[dramaqueen]

I have 1.5 gallons that aren't cycled and I change the water once a week.