Hello!
I have been cycling my tank, almost completed the process about 8 weeks out from the start.
I was told not to change the filter media because I'd lose my beneficial bacteria and it would start all over but I have also heard if sudden ammonia issues after nitrates had been stabilized can come from a dirty filter. wondering if that could be true? I had cleaned the cartridge (with dechlorinated water) a week ago just to avoid it getting too dirty with waste. At what point should the filter be changed vs just cleaned?
my understanding is that you dont want to replace early on in the cycling process but it is ok once nitrates are in the tank because beneficial bacteria are on more than just the filter at that point?
Also any thoughts on changing to sponge filter vs current hob?