Going from a 55g to a 130g ?

[Scherb]

Hello, so i am thinking of upgrading my 55 to a 130g, so i have some questions. i have a fluval 404 on my 55 i was planing on getting another 404 running it for a week or more in the 55g. then moving the 55 and replace fish in 55g. then put the 130 where the 55 was. then put that plant substrate that has good bacteria in the 130g then get as much cycled water as i can to fill it. i figured i would put all the gravel from the 55 on top of the plant substrate. but not sure if this will be good enough to avoid a large cycle. lighting. would two t5 Ho 6700k be good enough for low light plants ? i believe it would be two foot high tank. all tip and suggestions welcome. Thanks Cheers

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Add more than one filter to your 55g but also squeeze some of the media "drippings" into the new filters' media to colonize them. Then run the filters for a week or two. They should be then ready to cycle your new tank. I don't worry about the gravel stuff. Most of the good bacteria is in your filters not the water or the gravel.

[Gone Fishy]

Hello,

I have upgraded many times and this is my two cents....., run the new filter in the 55 for two week, doesn't hurt to go a little longer to ensure sufficient bacterial colonization (although you will only get enought to sustain what is needed in the 55), then move both filters to the new tank, add all the substrate and water from the 55, top up with fresh water to about 80% full. Add fish, wait 3-4 days, and top up to full. After that, do a water change about 4-5 days later and then your regular schedule, which should be about every 5 days anyway. I have done this numerous times and have never had a fish experience negative consequences. If you have questions i would be more than happy to help, just send me a pm.

Lance

[Scherb]

Thanks for the input. still wondering about the lights ? and i should have mentioned i have 2 discus and two rams. they are my main concern in the move. also i have lots of plants and will be adding a few more.

[FishFreaks]

add a bit of cycle/stability to the new tank water with your pre conditioned filters and you will be fine....ive setup bigger tanks in the past with new water new filters and fish all in the sameday and just dosed cycle/stability for a few weeks and no problem at all