Transferring seeded filter to new tank questions

[mgudyka]

Hi all,

I have been seeding a canister filter on my cycled tank for a couple of weeks now (can't remember if 3 or 4 now). My husband and I are going to be making a 6 hour total trek to pick up the fish I plan on stocking my new tank in. Right now this tank does not have any fish, just some plants and whatever hitchhikers came with them. If I transfer the seeded filter before we go, I don't think there will be anything for the bacteria to consume and I don't want them to die. 

Is it best to wait until we have returned with the fish to install the seeded filter?

[lefty o]

i would put it in soon as possible.  this will help the bacteria spread thru the tank. as far as feeding that bacteria, just crush up some fish food really fine and put it in there.

[Eric R]

Dr Tim of Dr Tim's one and only addressed a question about bacterial survival in this post here: https://www.cichlid-forum.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=246181&start=15

I agree, your filter should be fine hooked up while you go to get the fish.

[Patrick_G]

Great info @ererer!