How to CYCLE your AQUARIUM: Nitrogen Cycle EXPLAINED

[@ChrisSmith-il5qe]

I have looked everywhere for a simple/straight to the point video on the nitrogen cycle and the chemicals of a fish tank (im a fish tank virgin) and this was exactly what I needed. Thanks for the video.

[@MASSAquariums]

Awesome. Glad you got some information.

[@glendasworld4125]

What do you mean by fish tank virgin?

[@schunter20]

@@glendasworld4125 You don't remember when you lost tank virginity. Just you and a fish tank some Beatles on in the back ground, best 7 hours of my life.

[@fxhx4823]

Ouchmydragonballz lmaoooooo😂😂🤣🤣

[@richardchaplin5823]

Super helpful. Being a beginner there is so much to learn. Your videos are helping me out big time.

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks again Richard. 👍👍👍

[@BeardedBuuddha]

So I'm trying to get a tank ready for an axolotl and I have a black moor goldfish if I put him in there that should help establish it?

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes or dr Tim’s one and only

[@BeardedBuuddha]

Awesome thanks for the tip.

[@the_miki_padar]

Thank you brother for the simplified version. No trash talks. understood the process completely with many options to proceed with.

[@MASSAquariums]

👍🏻👍🏻🐟

[@libbybritt9979]

Hi thanks so much for the video! When you say “get some media from an established tank” what exactly would the media be? Like a used filter from the established tank? Thanks

[@MASSAquariums]

The media in an established filter that holds your beneficial bacteria. Ceramic possibly

[@JobilleTuts]

same question 8 had in mind when i hear media.

[@kingkato21]

I am getting someone in the hobby. Thank you for still having this up.

[@MASSAquariums]

You’re welcome

[@StylesSounds]

Hopefully you can help me on my question. Could you use a cold fish tank's media and then place that in to a tropical fresh water tank to begin the cycle?

[@MASSAquariums]

Yep. Definitely

[@dfg297lpopdirk]

so if i set up a new planted tank. and add some cheap goldfish. is that ok . while i concentrate one growing and feeding my plants

[@MASSAquariums]

Goldfish may eat your plants and they are usually cold water species and most plants are tropical temps

[@DavidSmith-cr7mb]

just got a job at a petstore, the person coaching me on animal care told me when i asked about what i should dig into to prepare myself, he said "learn about the nitrogen cycle", thank you for breaking this down for me, i will use this information at my new job absolutely you have helped me alot.

[@MASSAquariums]

🐟👍🏻🐟👍🏻

[@sallyi3969]

I’m a beginner bought a fish tank 2 days ago.. I’m using seachem stability to start a cycle I was told to keep using it for two weeks before adding fish ?

[@MASSAquariums]

The idea is to add ammonia or fish at the same time so the BB will have something to feed off of

[@angelaclements1244]

Doing a fish in cycle adding microbe lift special blend and microbe lift nite ii should I do daily water changes. Most people say I should whilst others say it delays the cycle. In the past I always used filter media from established tank but no longer have that option

[@MASSAquariums]

I would wait until the tank is cycled to do a WC

[@mrwhite8678]

I’ve been in the hobby over 20 years yet here I sit and watch this video. Good straight to the point explanation

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks. Appreciate it

[@lena990]

What exactly do you mean by media? Like a scoop of water from someone else’s tank? If I have a 20 gallon tank, how much media will I need to start it?

[@MASSAquariums]

Filter media that is in an established aquarium. Ceramic or plastic or stone

[@alexiakittycat9982]

Out of all the videos I watched... You are the only person who I understand lmao thank you 😂💩🦟

[@MASSAquariums]

You are welcome. 🐟🐟😂

[@jock2109]

I have just started cycling a juwel 400 tank with an FX6 pump which has media in from a previously established tank plus the tank has bogwood in from said previous established tank.The fish are currently in a smaller tank until ready to move over,so would you suggest rinsing out the dirty sponges from the smaller tank into the new tank aswell? And adding seachem prime and stability? Any advice appreciated

[@MASSAquariums]

No no need to rinse them. You can slowly add the fish and use dr Tim’s one and only

[@jock2109]

MASS Aquariums is seachem prime and stability the same as the Dr Tim

[@MASSAquariums]

+Scott Attwood no it is beneficial bacteria

[@tonyh2181]

I currently have a 10 gallon tank with plants (Not a planted tank) and 5 gouramis. I am currently working on a 40 gallon planted tank. Can I use the filter medium from my 10 gallon whisper filter to help start the cycle of the 40? Its a mechanical filter with a carbon medium.

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes you can take some media. 5 gouramies is a bit much but you can put them in the 40

[@tonyh2181]

the 10 gallon was a temporary home until i could get the 40 gallon going. I rescued the poor bastards from wal mart. Thank you for the advice. I love your videos. Keep them coming!

[@robertdillow9172]

How much of a water change would I do with the shrimp trick?

[@MASSAquariums]

25-50%

[@gregribelin9815]

So I’m new to this and have a mixture of 7 shrimp 2 zebra loaches, and a butterfly loache with live plants. They all get along perfectly fine. I just had a Nitrite spike. I did a half tank change. It’s been 4 days short of a month, does that mean it’s cycled ?

[@MASSAquariums]

Should be at this point

[@RichsFishes]

I've been thinking of making basically the same video! I've still got 2 tanks left in the fishroom that have been cycling for weeeeks and its just not going anywhere. One of them showed an ammonia drop and a rise in nitrites but then the cycle crashed for some reason and I'm back to square one!

[@MASSAquariums]

You should do one. You have all those tanks just use existing media and add some fish

[@RichsFishes]

Yeah I'll do one eventually! LOL yeah I know I could use some media from one of the other tanks; but I dont have any fish for the tanks that are cycling right now and want to keep them empty so I have a way to grow out some discus once that pair figures out how not to eat their babies!

[@heavytechNE]

How soon should I see nitrites when using a nitrifying bacteria and ammonia (dr Tim’s) on day 8 and still 0ppm?

[@heavytechNE]

Ammonia is 3-4ppm

[@MASSAquariums]

Maybe you’re cycled

[@heavytechNE]

@@MASSAquariums even with 0 Nitrates ? Ammonia 4 Nitrates and Nitrites 0 on day 14

[@josephs4212]

Ya nitrite does not break down ammonia. and nitrate does not break down nitrite. Bacteria coverts the chemicals.

[@MASSAquariums]

+Joseph S 👍🏻

[@TavorSwoods]

Yeah. So I messed up and set up a planted tank without knowing this information. Needless to say, my tetras are dying by the day. So, in regards to the dead tetras should I leave them in the tank while it cycles or should I take them out?

[@MASSAquariums]

+Justin Sticks take them out is brst

[@TavorSwoods]

MASS Aquariums in addition, my aquarium plants are yellowing/ getting lighter. My duck weed is not making it.

[@SiegePerilousEsauMaltomite]

Justin Sticks RIP

[@datroy3647]

Okay so I had a tank with only an African Dwarf frog I was planning to get some more frogs and maybe a snail but sadly the frog died (I think it was from old age I did the best I could as a beginner and he was 4 or more years old when I got him from a friend when I got him he died 3 months in they live an average of 5 years) he didn’t have any obvious signs of disease but I cleaned everything anyway but kept my live plants. I’m thinking of getting guppies will the live plants carry any disease? Can guppies even get diseases from African dwarf frogs?So I’ve put water in the tank my old plants and some frozen brine shrimp how long should I wait? Will this work for cycling my tank?

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes. Should be good. You can do a bleach dip for your plants if you’re worried

[@pecktec]

Lol the visual of 25 people shitting in a pool then going for a swim. Ahhhh! ;)

[@MASSAquariums]

I thought that would hit someone. Lol. That's probably how the fish feel

[@kaokhaesaechao]

2,500 people

[@duncanhenderson8769]

brilliant. Makes miles more sense. Dumping in a swimming pool is what I cant understand better lol

[@MASSAquariums]

+Duncan Henderson haha

[@abdullahnadeem3169]

I don't understand what is media???? plus if I only add some ammonia in the tank how much days will it take to cycle and after how many days I should add the fish

[@MASSAquariums]

+Abdullah Nadeem media holds your beneficial bacteria and you should wait 2-4 weeks for a cycle

[@abdullahnadeem3169]

MASS Aquariums oh ok can u plz tell me the whole size of ur 75 gallon tank like how many inches long. I mean its width, length, and height plz do tell cuz I want a same tank as u cuz I love ur tank also tell how many millimeters is the glass of ur tank. well I hope I can get in $150 as u got...

[@hhbt31989]

Quick question I have a 65 gallon fish tank fake plants and on the tips of the leaves I keep getting this brown stuff on there what is it

[@MASSAquariums]

Diatoms. Brown algae. You can just wipe it off. Add a powerhead or circulation pump

[@netanyal.a.d]

so i have other tanks that have had filters running they're only one gallons and i just recently got a 5 gallon. Can i take some of the water from the other tanks to help cycle the bigger tank?

[@MASSAquariums]

Water doesn't do anything but you can swap some media

[@netanyal.a.d]

what is media? im not very uo to date with the terminology still a beginner

[@MASSAquariums]

Your ceramic or stone media in your filter

[@zemog1278]

I have a 40 gallon tank that I'm upgrading to a 90 gallon. I have three filters running on that 40 gallon witch I'm transfering over. I also bought an extra filter for the 90 gallon. I've already put some of the new media from the new filter in my 40 gallon to start building bacteria. What else can I do before setting up the 90 gallon and how soon can I transfer my fish? One more thing before I move my fish I do plan on taking one of the 3 filters in my 40 gallon and the media from the new filter that I have started in the 40 gallon to start the new 90 gallon. Once I move everything over I will also move the 2 other filters along with the fish. How long should I run the new tank before transfering the fish and the other 2 filters?

[@MASSAquariums]

Your. Beneficial bacteria will die of it has nothing to feed on. I would transfer the old filter media and fish to the new tank at the same time

[@zemog1278]

ok thanks. I was worried of shocking my fish.

[@puscifer99]

Thanks, I'm actually doing a similar thing. I've just rescaped and hoping using the existing biomedia and Stability will supercharge the cycle....

[@zemog1278]

I actually transferred everything over on Monday and so far so good. no fish loss. all my fish are doing great thanks for the advice.

[@zemog1278]

I also used the old gravel witch I think also helped.

[@NHseacoast]

Good video. How about adding api quick start additive they hsve beneficial good bacteria ready to go, what are your thoughts on using g an api type product? Thanks

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes I like those products for sure

[@stonigee7997]

I wanna set up my old 55 gallon again. I currently have my betta in a 10 gallon with a sponge filter. If I squeeze the sponge into the 55 gallon the next water change I do, Will it still be as hard on the fish if I do a fish cycle? Maybe add a little bit of Stress Zyme as well.

[@MASSAquariums]

Use dr Tim’s one and only

[@claireb3089]

When doing the shrimp thing, how much water should i change when im taking them out? all of it? i have a 5 gallon tank

[@MASSAquariums]

2 gallons

[@razorXblueXeyes]

What kind of gravel did you use in the tank in the background ??

[@MASSAquariums]

Just straight black gravel

[@kevivmaj]

I have a 10gallon planted tank but with only gravel no substrate, with heater, with submersible air pump filter started with fish in cycling with 2 guppies both of them died after 4 days. I then decided to do fishless cycling then I realised ammonia source required so i again brought 2 x black spot barb fishes but they didnt' look great so i put them in a water tub and decided to do fishless cycling with tank since 1 week. I put 2 x raw uncooked prawn to get ammonia spike the seachem alert reads ammonia 0.5 ppm it reach here gradually day by day in last 7 days. I am also putting seachem stability as per dosage required since 7 days still no trace of nitrite. I didnt do any water changes since 1 week but before that for almost 1 week i did 2 times water changes almost 50%. What would i be doing wrong? I kept temperature 79F initially first week now in 2nd week i kept temp at 86F. Can you help ? My Gh0, Kh 180,

[@MASSAquariums]

Keep your temp at 78-82 and just let it run for a couple weeks and you’ll be all good

[@pineappleking1467]

So helpful I had a rough understanding but this helped a lot was think about using a canister of the bacteria and use ammonia in a bottle is this ok to do and is there any thing I should know before using this method

[@MASSAquariums]

Nope you can do it just go easy on the ammonia

[@StevePolandAquatics]

Love the shirt. I've had good luck with seachem stability to kick start a cycle, though like you I'm now at a point where I have no shortage of used media. Multiple tank syndrome in full effect.

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks bro. I hear good things about that product. Oh man I have MTS and now I have to get rid of some. It's to much labor and not much love anymore

[@StevePolandAquatics]

I think there is a happy medium, especially if you have kids like you and I do. Easy to get carried away though.

[@MASSAquariums]

I hear you on that one. The kids and all there sports and karate and scout them I'm beat

[@seokhoonjun6138]

I really like your videos more specifically your style of videos; informative, ego-free, and very empathetic. I just subscribed and hope to see more of good stuff. Thanks for the amazing uploads!

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks. I appreciate the comment.

[@garrybainbridge2160]

Ok mate. I’m setting up a 162 uk gallon tank in a couple of weeks time. Already have a fx6 running on my other tank. If I put that on the new tank would I be able to put fish in straight away till the sump gets beneficial bacteria built up

[@MASSAquariums]

You can totally do that and as an extra step add some beneficial bacteria with the fish

[@amberlynnbarnett1099]

Is it okay to add ammonia to your tank with live plants while your cycling a tank? I’m only asking because I’ve heard it’s fatal to fish but what about plants??

[@MASSAquariums]

Plants should be ok

[@maxfontaine5780]

So I have this new topfin 10 gallon saltwater tank with dry rock, live sand, and reef crystals (sea salt). If I add topfin bacteria starter how long do you suggest to wait before I add a fish or corals?

[@MASSAquariums]

I would wait a month or you will end up spending a lot of money killing fish. You could try adding some hardy fish in 2 weeks like a pair of clowns but no promises. I tried Fluval's brand and it didn't work. I've heard with ATM colony you can add fish immediately

[@jcnobles1]

So....what do you recommend as "media" from an existing tank? Existing tank we inherited is 10 gallon. Bought a new 29 gallon starter kit. Put water in, put water conditioner in to clear chlorine, put fish in after a few hours.....they started dropping like flies. What do you recommend media wise and quantity from old tank to new tank to kick start stuff and how long should I wait before introducing fish again? Maybe a day and then a couple hardies to fish cycle? Thanks!

[@MASSAquariums]

Take half your biological media from an existing tank and add dr Tim’s one and only with a few fish at a time

[@serialpringle6015]

Will the shrimp work for freshwater aquarium s

[@MASSAquariums]

Yep

[@TheRedsoxgirl05]

About how much "media" should I borrow from another friends tank, I have a 20 gallon tank I'm planning on setting up this weekend. Thanks!

[@MASSAquariums]

If you could get like a handful that would help

[@soggyRATUwU]

So I'm buying a used 20 gallon tank that already has like 2 small plants some driftwood gravel a sponge filter and a HOB filter I want to replace the gravel with sand but I can wait until it's cycled out if that'd be better, anyways my question is would all these things with benefitial bacteria be good for cycling out the tank? I'm completely new to keeping fish and I want to make sure I do everything to the best of my ability so my fish don't suffer from it when I finally get some fish

[@MASSAquariums]

I would start fresh

[@Bandicoot1936]

nice quick and to the point. seeding the tank is the way to go. using fish can be pretty harmless if using seachem prime or safe it detoxifies ammonia and nitrite for 24 hrs. adding daily would prevent the harsh conditions of a cycling tank.

[@MASSAquariums]

Couldn't agree more bro this video is made to give the nice and quick version. Anyone can google the Long version I figured I would make the simple one

[@SkroodelTV]

Hey i just for my 240 liter juwel aquarium. how do u think i will stsrt my cycle? and how long shoud i wait befor start adding fishes?

[@MASSAquariums]

Use Dr Tims and add Fish right away

[@SkroodelTV]

MASS Aquariums what is Dr tims? did i miss something :)?

[@jacobcancino5655]

Once I set up my tank, can I throw in frozen blood worms? Will that spark the Nitrogen Cycle?

[@MASSAquariums]

It will definitely help. Just don’t toss to many and make sure to remove via gravel vac after a bit

[@netanyal.a.d]

My ammonia is at about 4.0ppm the nitrite is not exactly at .25 ppm its a little less and the nitrate is between 10 and 20ppm. I use the API master test kit and i was wondering if these readings were normal. I am doing a fishless cycle with bacteria from the bottle and some filter media from another tank

[@MASSAquariums]

+Netanya Rose the bacteria from the bottle only works if there is something for it to feed on like Fish waste. You could always add some raw shrimp in a container with holes

[@netanyal.a.d]

MASS Aquariums oh im sorry i forgot to mention i used pure ammonia to start off with

[@MASSAquariums]

+Netanya Rose that works. 👍🏻

[@netanyal.a.d]

MASS Aquariums So my levels are somewhat normal?

[@MASSAquariums]

+Netanya Rose yes

[@bruhdabones]

I just got a new 10 gal tank. I have everything in it (heater, filter, rocks, hood lights, decorations). I put some API Stress Coat+ (for slime and dechlorination), and ReadiStart Nitrifying Bacteria. There are no fish in this right now. I tested the ammonia is 0.15 - 0.25 ppm and the Nitrite is 0 and the Nitrate is

[@williamsun4544]

ammonia will be zero, nitrite will be zero, and nitrate will be less than ten ppm

[@MASSAquariums]

Let the cycle complete then add your fish

[@williamsun4544]

if you added the bacteria and follow the instructions, it should be ready in one week

[@kaejaeya]

Is there anything wrong with using plants to cycle? I have a ten gallon that will be moderately planted. I only plan on getting 8-10 neon tetras and later a few cherry shrimp. I've read some posts that say the plants will hinder completion of the nitrogen cycle...but if the plants are dealing with the ammonia load, are there any cons to this method? Will bacteria grow off any excess nitrogen?

[@MASSAquariums]

Cycle takes time no matter what. I always plant my tanks right away and then put some media from an existing filter in the new filter.

[@imwwinning]

Hi :) Great video! When doing the fish food method of starting up the ammonia, do I wait until I see an ammonia spike before adding the beneficial bacteria starter, so to feed and not starve the beneficial bacteria?Approximately how much fish food do I need to add daily in order to start up the ammonia? Also, when cycling the tank, do I wait to do a water change until I see a nitrate spike? How much water do I remove from a 10 gallon tank, so not to disturb the new cycle? While cycling my new tank, can I run my filter with carbon floss with filter floss? Thank you so much.

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes you can run everything. Just a pinch of food is good or you can add fish and the bacteria at the same time

[@joashmiranda5623]

I have a new 11 gal tank, can i just place in a new filter, heater, gravel plants and decholrinated water and let it sit for a 2 weeks to a month to get it cycled?

[@davidzheng309]

Your video is awesome! But I have a question , how do you know the cycle started, and some api quick start product said we can add the fish immediately after we use it, it is reliable ?

[@MASSAquariums]

I use Dr Tim’s one and only. You know the cycle is complete when you test your water for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate

[@dsingh8530]

thanks for you quick replies. I was able to get a rock and Birchwood from another tank. how long will it take to cycle 38 gallon tank?

[@MASSAquariums]

Couple weeks

[@dsingh8530]

MASS Aquariums thanks I really appreciate it! subscribed!

[@PuffingTheHerbs]

Im currently in process of getting a 240l tank set up but soon as i have it filled and after letting it sit for couple days to let temperature stable I am then going to add the dechlorinater and stuff called API Quickstart which says it allows you to introduce fish right away. Ive read that zebra danios are the best starter fish for new tank so my plan is to get 6 of them and then add maybe 2-4 other fish the following week. would this be right way to do it? and is 6 danios too much to add at once

[@MASSAquariums]

+AquaKing danios are mean ass fish and will torture any other fish you put in. Let the tank and dechlorinator sit for 3 weeks and add dr Tims and some platy's

[@PuffingTheHerbs]

MASS Aquariums everywhere ive read says danios are great community fish especially in groups of 6 or more? dont like plattys but ive read online that black mollies are good starter fish too. dont think id have the patience to wait 3 weeks looking at an empty tank! its already gonna be about another 3 weeks until I have made tank all set up and ready for water

[@DMBman13]

Hi Mike, I'm setting up a new tank and had a few questions for you....I have an Aquaclear 50 running sponge on the bottom, then polyfilter pad, then chemipure, followed lastly by biomax. How does this setup sound? Also, can I still cycle my tank with the polyfilter in place since it removes ammonia?!? Thanks!

[@MASSAquariums]

I would go sponge, media, ChemiPure then PolyFilter pad.

[@rozzer666]

What's the tall plant on the far right

[@MASSAquariums]

Bacopa

[@jamesgarcia3555]

Mass, I got an fx4 on a 18x18x18 cube 25 gallon planted tank w co2 paintball tank and air stones, 10 fish (4 are guppies, 4 are glow fish, 2 Dalmatian mollies) I’m on week 3 and still no nitrate. Ammonia is fairly low but definitely present. Nitrite either. Doing 30% water changes once a week, feeding fish lightly twice a day. Do you think this fx4 is messing with the cycle since it’s so powerful for a 25 gallon? I also added carbon media bags and extra biological media into the canister filter.

[@MASSAquariums]

If the fish are healthy I wouldn’t worry about it. That is a lot of filter. Haha. Nice clean water

[@Nothingheavy8]

Your videos are the best. Of the hours of research I've done I've pretty much followed yours to set up my first low tech. Probably because your from Mass #patsforthewin

[@elmentiras2097]

What fish is the the ones you used to make amonia. What’s the name of the fish you used to do fish cycle???

[@MASSAquariums]

Any hardy fish. Platy’s and Molly’s are good

[@kdr1048]

I just set up my first planted tank in a 20 long. Just have 1 plant in right now. If i pull my filter out of my 10 gallon and put it in my 20 long how long before i can add fish? Week should be good? Thanks i love your vids

[@MASSAquariums]

+Kevin Rosenberg yeah a week will be good. Thanks

[@kraig1-b4u]

I just started a 75 g 6 days ago, I have an aqueous 75 and a fluval 406 running, ph @ 7.6, temp @ 79.2. I put a little fish food in day 2 and nothing happened with ammonia, yesterday I threw a 1" by 2" piece of salmon in tank and today I'm reading a .50 ppm ammonia. Do I need to add anymore once the nitrites begin, or just leave it alone? And by the way, very good video!

[@MASSAquariums]

+Kraig Young just leave it alone. Thanks.

[@nicholascole161]

Can I use pond water to cycle my tank? I have a pond that had about 9 koi in it during summer and fall, but now it is winter and I am putting the same fish in a large tank in my basement. As they will freeze, I do not have time to wait. Can I take water from my pond and just pour it into my tank to cycle it?

[@MASSAquariums]

+Nick_r_ Cole you need to waste for bacteria to feed on. The water will help but will not cycle your tank. You can add media from a filter

[@iloveyourtiddies69balzac36]

Can you use a pinch of fish food to start the cycle? I’ve heard that before

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes

[@sweetscience1019]

If I add an extra HOB filter to my cycling saltwater tank (been cycling for about 1 week-2 days, already detecting nitrites/nitrates!) will it mess with the cycle in any way? Sorry for the newbie question I am indeed a newbie

[@MASSAquariums]

Nope. Not at all

[@sweetscience1019]

MASS Aquariums thanks for all the great info you provide through your vids !

[@rochellesassbug931]

what do you think of quick start additives? can they really cut down on cycling time?

[@MASSAquariums]

I use Dr Tims one and only nitrifying bacteria. Love it. Add it while slowly adding fish. I have links in my descriptions

[@ssjgyoshi9285]

I just got 6 black moors in my 55 gal tank and I got it on 2/20/16 and it sat for like about 2 months until I had money left over to get fish as of 4/23/16 I got the fish and I vaccumed it out before I put the moors in and then tested it my readings were pH: 7.2, ammonia: 0, nitrate: 5, nitrite: 0.1. I called the store called Rick's Fish & Pet Supply told the person my reading and she said that was fine and I could put them in the tank but your levels are low because you have no good bacteria in tank so she said once you have the fish in there for four months without me doing anything except feeding them you levels should go up and then you can do a water change. What are your guys opinion about this???

[@MASSAquariums]

+Adrien Barchers (Toxic Equinox) yes let your tank cycle and then add the fish and you can do water changes every 2-3 weeks

[@jeffplayswithstuff4840]

Thanks Mike! I am glad that I am not the only impatient one that can't stand an empty tank. I load up extra bio media so there is an overabundance in my tanks just waiting.

[@MASSAquariums]

Yep. It's in my blood and being from MASS we can't wait for anything. Go go go

[@Dannyraisin4]

If u buy a hardy fish or 2 do u still do weekly water changes or wait for the tank to completely cycle

[@MASSAquariums]

After the tank is cycled you can start water changes

[@Dannyraisin4]

@@MASSAquariums thank u so much! Keep up the great work 👍

[@jaitao5656]

Great video, man. You provided all the information that I needed in a clear and concise manner. Subscribed!

[@MASSAquariums]

Thank you. Appreciate that

[@BigDavos]

Dude I just got so much knowledge from this video, very simple and straight forward. Love your content man keep em coming.

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks. Glad you got some good info. Thanks for the support

[@JacksonsMainAcc]

With the old media(since I have a tank that i want to upgrade) or the shrimp version, how long after do you put your fish in, and how many times do you have to change the water?

[@MASSAquariums]

Every couple weeks is fine

[@DamienHorta1289]

i had a old tank that was sitting with water but empty no fishes or pump runing for 2 years , yesterdya i cleaned it out took out the filters and try to clean it just squising the spong under tap water and now im using the filter in a new tank, and i used the test strip next day and i detect small amount of nitrate but no nitrite, and when i open the lid i can smell the typical smell of a established aquarium, what should i do?

[@MASSAquariums]

Start over. Clean outvote tank. A healthy tank has no smell.

[@DamienHorta1289]

its a new tank i only used the old internal filter from the old tank, cleaned it under tap water and sponges and instaled it in the new tank, never used before

[@MASSAquariums]

Oh. Try adding some ChemiPure to the filter

[@jeremytheruler]

question im finishing up upgrading my turtle tank and I plan on adding fish and ive done the research on species and what i need but will i have to worry about going through the nitrogen cycle if the turtle has been living in the cage for a while

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes you will have too

[@remosgxmatt]

Just bought an aquarium today. Nice video for beginners. Subscribed.

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks

[@Daniel27125]

Do media last forever? Or do I have to change my media like I would change a filter or a sponge after it's been used for a while?

[@MASSAquariums]

It’s good to rinse it out in tank water during a water change and if you do need to replace it do it slowly 25% at a time

[@Slashmaster1989]

Great info bro planted tank looks amazing awesome video

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks Slashanator

[@elisacand8522]

In order to cycle the aquarium, do the substrate and decorations need to be there or can they be added later? And how much ammonia should be dropped to start the cycle? Thank you :)

[@MASSAquariums]

They can be added later. Just a few drops per day or a tiny bit of fish food will start the cycle for you

[@maxren4611]

Hi i just got a new aquarium yesterday so im new to this aquarium thingy. I Just want to ask When you say water change you mean all the water in my aquarium needs to be changed?

[@MASSAquariums]

+11,989,451,456 views no. Usually 25%is sufficient. Some people like to to do 50%+.

[@maxren4611]

MASS Aquariums many thanks! 👍🏻

[@ILLWILL562]

What do you mean by media?

[@MASSAquariums]

Biological media that holds your beneficial bacteria

[@pilulaaquaristica9097]

Hey! Respect from Brazil. I have a low tech tank without CO2 and low light! Do i have to do water change to Cycle my tank?

[@MASSAquariums]

Nope. Just let it go until the cycle is done and then you can do water changes every couple weeks to keep nitrates down. Thanks for watching

[@pilulaaquaristica9097]

Thanks dude!

[@MASSAquariums]

👍

[@pilulaaquaristica9097]

+MASS Aquariums Do You use UV sterelizer/filter? What do You Think about it?

[@MASSAquariums]

Only in my reef tank

[@bullitlbc]

What if you have an established tank, but something happens where I keep getting ammonia spikes every 2-3 days??? It’s happening to me. I’m getting to the point where I’m giving up😔.. what could it be?

[@MASSAquariums]

If the fish are fine don’t worry about it add more media

[@bullitlbc]

MASS Aquariums. When you mean media... you mean more beneficial bacteria? I have a aqueon 75 filter that has two cartridges in it. Thanks for the help. It looks like my tank is going through a mini cycle again.

[@mikethegodson4250]

Can I fill up with RO water and add fish in a day or 2?

[@MASSAquariums]

You still need to cycle your tank.

[@GNJsAquaticNation]

Great topic and great video. This is something all aquarist should know.

[@MASSAquariums]

Thanks Glen. Tried to dumb this one down a bit so it's the simple version

[@metalhead9656]

I have a tank that has been running for about a year now and I want to upgrade. Can I transfer everything out of the small tank into the bigger by doing this do I still have to do a cycle on the new tank?

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes you can. As long as you keep the media you’ll be fine. Maybe a quick mini cycle might happen

[@metalhead9656]

MASS Aquariums so what you think maybe take some media out of old tank let the new tank run for a bit before moving Fish? What would you do

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes exactly. You “should” be able to move Fish and media at the same time

[@AlliethatBelle]

I have a new 10 gallon freshwater tank that I've had set up since the end of March and I still cannot get my Nitrites down. I've been fluctuating between .25 & .50 pmm this entire time. I've done multiple water changes, used cycle starter or water conditioner products like Prime, API quick start & Salt. I tried the media in the beginning by taking water from my current tank into the new one but that didn't help. At this point I don't know what to do. Should I empty the entire tank, refill it and go from there? If I do that what steps should I use? I don't like using live fish and I like the shrimp idea from the store I just need to know the proper steps. If it helps I just checked the levels last night and the levels were .50ppm Any advice helps!!! Thank you!!!

[@MASSAquariums]

That actually isn’t that high. If the fish are healthy I wouldn’t stress about it. My guess which has happened often is the nitrates in your tap water is high. You can add live plants to help

[@AlliethatBelle]

@@MASSAquariums I actually only have a Bristlenosed Pleco that's about 7 years old and I'm moving him so I'm just afraid he will croak

[@cherylbihis2331]

I was wondering if live plants can start the cycle. If so, would I still need to add drops of ammonia?

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes

[@danielbarriosromero6139]

Hey how do I test the water for ammonia and the beneficial bacteria?

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes

[@danielbarriosromero6139]

How do I test it? Thank you for responding so fast lol

[@MASSAquariums]

You'll have to go by test kits

[@vincemirenda9654]

This is such a late comment but I need an answer. I've had my tank for three months and completely forgot about the whole cycling part. If I do a fish cycle will it kill some of my not so hardy fish?

[@MASSAquariums]

+Vincent Mirenda you must be cycled by now

[@SiegePerilousEsauMaltomite]

I put a bit of diammonium phosphate in my brand new lightly planted 10 gallon, was that bad?

[@MASSAquariums]

+Vlad The Inhaler not familiar with it

[@SiegePerilousEsauMaltomite]

MASS Aquariums It's a fertilizer that is also used as a yeast nutrient in brewing. It's two ammonium ions and a hydrogen phosphate ion, so should be a source of ammonia and phosphate, but couldn't find much on the use in aquariums. Should be fine, I did end up finding a product that contained DAP and is for planted aquariums. Thanks for the reply, great channel.

[@pretzel7868]

I am probably going to get a lot of hate for this but what if you have a betta and you didn’t know about how long the nitrogen cycle takes what can I do to save my betta I’ve had him for two weeks and he’s still looking healthy today I bought a testing kit and hopefully all goes well but if my water tests badly what should I do to save my betta I only have one tank.

[@MASSAquariums]

Is he seems fine I would just keep doing what you’re doing. Luckily for you Betta’s breath air.

[@SpoonfulForYou]

Dude I know that this video is old but can I pour fish food and then bacteria into the tank in order to start the cycle?

[@MASSAquariums]

You can yes. When it rots it will produce ammonia

[@ameya05patke]

Just a question, Will I have to add fish food everyday or at what intervals should I be adding the fish food?

[@MASSAquariums]

+Ameya Patke just one time. As it rots in releases ammonia

[@Drake_Dimes]

These are the fish I want for my 50 gallon. Cherry barb school Gold barb school Swordtail school Zebra danios school Red tail shark or Peter Elephant nose as my centerpiece. What are your thoughts? I know its probably too many fish for tank size

[@MASSAquariums]

You should be fine

[@Drake_Dimes]

MASS Aquariums Would you go with the Red tail or peter nose? Or do you think my tanks big enough for both?

[@monwoo10]

Ok so I'm a newbie and I'm gonna buy a 5 gallon tank and I have some questions 1. There is a product called Nutrafin Cycle Biological Filter Supplement and it claims to cycle a tank, have you tried using that? And if so does it work within a couple days because the kit I wanna buy comes with that product for use in a aquarium. 2. Once you cycle a tank do you ever need to cycle it again for any reason? 3. How do you know when your tank is properly cycled?

[@MASSAquariums]

+monwoo10 I've never used that but Dr Tims one and only is a great cycle product. You need to test your water and when you have 0 ammonia and 0 nitrite your cycle is complete.

[@monwoo10]

+MASS Aquariums also does your filter need to be running through the entire cycling?

[@MASSAquariums]

Yes.

[@newahmed2345]

Good day, I am a complete beginner in aquariums and want to start this hobby. When i buy a brand new tank and accessories, can i get some water from the fish store, spill into the aquarium, fill the aquarium with dechorinated water, let it cycle for 2 days and then add fishes. Is this a good way to cycle a tank ? Please advise as i am confused about the nitrogen cycle and dont know how to start an aquarium with cycled water. Thank You Saeed

[@MASSAquariums]

+New Ahmed it would be better to get some media from a local fish stores filter the water does absolutely nothing. Or you could use a product like Dr. Tim's one and only

[@allisontowers5811]

Hey Mike, I'm doing a fish cycle and currently my ammonia is good, but nitrites and nitrates are high. Does this mean its finished cycling? What do i do to finish it off? Should i just do some big water changes to lower the levels and wrap it up?

[@MASSAquariums]

When you ammonia is 0 and nitrite is 0 and just your nitrates are 20-40+ ppm you can start water changes.

[@thealman21]

When do you recommend a water change? At roughly 20 ppm?

[@MASSAquariums]

That number is fine. WC every 2-3 weeks

[@thealman21]

MASS Aquariums thank you

[@Funnyguy77]

Hey all! I'm looking into getting my first fish tank. Still am kinda confused as to why it takes so long to cycle. I don't have access to any media and am unsure how long it would take to cycle using ammonia. What are your thoughts on the bacteria boosters you can purchase? Also, any thoughts on how I could expedite the process with no media?

[@MASSAquariums]

+Funnyguy77 use dr Tims one and only and you can add fish at the same time

[@salsoteca72]

My friends do not have fish, what should I do? Should I add Aquarium bacteria? Or ammonia is aquarium bacteria?

[@MASSAquariums]

Ammonia will work