New filter

[notronaldreagan]

Just bought a new 75 gallon tank and looking to set it up for discus and I know that will be some months away while getting it cycled. Would it be bettter to get it started cycling with a sponge filter/ HOB then upgrade to bigger cannister filter down the line when im getting closer to ordering discus 

[mynameisnobody]

Buy the filter you’re going to use. A sponge filter never hurt nobody so I’d add one regardless. 

[Tony s]

On 7/16/2024 at 9:30 AM, notronaldreagan said:

Would it be bettter to get it started cycling with a sponge filter

I’d start it with a sponge. Then I’d leave it in and add the canister. And use the sponge as an extra source of oxygen. You can never have too much oxygen 

And would allow you to setup a quarantine tank quickly if needed 

[lefty o]

guessing you have other tanks as jumping right into discus is a big move. so having the assumed other tanks, get your new filters up and running in your old tanks. its a huge short cut to establishing the beneficial bacteria colony.