Cycling with "borrowed gravel"?

Question

I'm gonna get a 5 gallon hex tank tommarrow because they are on sale for super-cheap....

So if I use some gravel from another aquarium, how much do I use? How long should I expect it to take?

I broke down a tank a week ago....decided that I didnt want one....and of course, changed my mind.

So I'm using gravel from a buddies tank. I was thinking maybe a cup?!?!?

Also, I'm going to get live plants....so I figure they will have some good bacteria?

Answer 1

Use all seeded gravel if possible. If not, take what you can. You can do the same thing with live plants (even from the store,) rocks, decorations,etc from an established tank. Of course, if you are using filtration (right?) the best thing to do is use some old filter media. That will have the highest concentration of useful bacteria.

Also helpful to control bio-load:
Regular water-changes. "Freshwater fish really like fresh water."
Add one fish at a time if possible over a period of time.
Do not overstock!

Have fun!

Answer 2

There are no "exact" numbers to this. But the more you use, the faster the cycle will be finished. Also, raise the temperature, since warmer water allows the bacteria to reproduce faster.

If you don't want to keep the other gravel for your tank, you can put it in an old stocking and keep it in the filter, or at least where the water from the filter return flows over it.

And don't forget to add some ammonia or fish food so the bacteria have a source of food!

Answer 3

1 4 of the tank.