Converting a fresh water tank to salt water

I have a 90 gallon fresh water tank, that in the future I would like to convert to salt water. My question is... should I start from scratch, or use the water that is already in it. I thought that I had read somewhere that a lot of the bacteria is similar. Any thoughts on this?

Steve [smiley=afro.gif]

 

Add salt to taste and stir.

;D

 

Start from scratch is the serious answer. And mixing salt is best to do in a container outside the tank.

 

From what I understand, keep in mind I'm no Scientist, is that the bacteria is different. I believe the breaking point is 1.012 sg. I learn this when acclimating my Green spotted puffer from brackish to salt. When you hit 1.012 your FW bacteria die off and you re-cycle your tank. I'm not sure if it is 1.012 but it is somewhere close to that number.

I would definitely drain and start over unless you are acclimating a brackish fish to saltwater. Also you will probably want change your substate. This is easier to do without water in the tank.

 

Thanks all.

Steve