re-using filters

[hdevils]

I have a 5g hex with all in one filtration/ lights. i havent used it in a long time but find myself in need. im cycling a 20g qt tank so its ready for new additions. i have had an outbreak some some disease/ bacteria infection in my display. i would like to leave it sit empty for 6 weeks incase of parisites. all that is left is a firefish and 2 chromies. thinking about adding those little guys to the 5g. i have filters that have been used before and have dried out. are those old filters ok to use again? my main tank has been running for over 2yrs. how long do you think it will take to get enough bacteria on the small 5g filter?

thanks

 

[Agu]

5 gallon is too small for the firefish and two chromis. Why can't you use the 20 gallon ? If you're still cycling it you may have to do a few water changes but it's a better alternative.

 

[schiejr]

Without seeding the new tank/filter, it will be like a new cycle. A starter culture from a healthy tank should help speed things up.

You have to monitor water quality, feed sparingly and perform water changes when necessary. The primary concern is to get your ammonia low, nitrite is less of a problem.

If I understand your post, your are planning on the 5 instead of the 20? What is the status of the 20? A cycling 20 is better than a cycling 5.

 

[hdevils]

after 6wks of no fish in the main tank the chromies and firefish go back. then what happens to the 20 gallon? will i have to start over since i will be treating sick fish or can i add new additions right away with a 25% water change?

the 20 gallon has a new sponge filter in it for 2wks. been adding pellets and myss shrimp. i have a used sponge filter but not another air pump. can i add the used w/out air pump to the main tank for a quicker cycle time? i didnt want to do this because the main is infected.

 

[hdevils]

the 20 was going to be a fresh cycle and adding new additions when cycled.

the 5 was going to be for treating the infected chromies and firefish. the filter and water would be seeded from the main tank.

 

[schiejr]

What is the ammonia level in the 20? The worst of the cycle (ammonia) may be at zero already. Use this for the fish. A five is small to be keeping several fish in for any amount of time.

If you are treating disease, I would not worry about new additions at this time.

What are you treating for? Parasites or bacteria or both? When you are done with the 20, if parasites, you could let if lie fallow like you did with the main; if you do not want to sterilize it. Bacteria is less of an issue for transference IMO.

 

[hdevils]

i dont know about waiting over 4 months to add a new fish.

6wks treating a chromie and a firefish it QT
6wks QT empty which i woud do since i want NO parasites
6wks QT new fish

ex girlfriend picked out the firefish. anyone want a free firefish?