Keeping QT tank cycled

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by Heather Carver, Nov 1, 2015.

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  1. Heather Carver

    Heather Carver Astrea Snail

    Joined:
    Mar 17, 2015
    Messages:
    40
    hello everyone!
    I had a quick question in regards to my QT tank. I have had it running for the past 8 or so months and use it every so often for 2 weeks before introducing a new fish in my main tank. The tank is always running. Lately everytime I put a fish in, I go through a cycle. The ammonia and nitrites spike. I currently keep about 10 snails and hermit crabs in my 10 gallon tank to keep the cycle going. However, as soon as I introduce a fish, it cycles. I understand that the sudden fish load will do this. Is there any way to prevent this? Should I add more snails and crabs? Could I put a fish in there and keep it in there? Let me know what you guys think. Thank you in advance.
     
    Heather Carver, Nov 1, 2015
    Heather Carver, Nov 1, 2015
    #1

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  2. Vinnyboombatz

    Vinnyboombatz Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Oct 24, 2010
    Messages:
    6,344
    Location:
    Dunnellon, Florida
    Yes. Keeping a fish in there would be wise. A docile one preferably.
     
    Vinnyboombatz, Nov 1, 2015
    Vinnyboombatz, Nov 1, 2015
    #2
  3. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Apr 30, 2009
    Messages:
    4,551
    Location:
    Florida
    Can keep a sponge in your display and transfer it to the QT. May help a bit.
     
    Kevin_E, Nov 1, 2015
    Kevin_E, Nov 1, 2015
    #3
  4. Newreef15

    Newreef15 Horrid Stonefish

    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2009
    Messages:
    2,052
    Location:
    Tallahassee Florida
    You can also ghost feed the tank
     
    Newreef15, Nov 4, 2015
    Newreef15, Nov 4, 2015
    #4