So I just picked up a new 55 gallon tank that I need to get a stand for, then it will be up and running. My question is a cycling question.

I have a Marineland Bio-Wheel 350 and a HOT Magnum currently running in my 55 gallon. If I were to take the Bio-Wheel filter and place it on the new 55, once it is set-up, would the new tank need to be cycled, since there is already plenty of beneficial bacteria already in the filter?

It will be the Oscar's new home, and I'm gonna get a couple Geophagus Cichlids, some pristella tetra, some panda cories, and a black veil angelfish for my current tank.

The O will be getting an upgraded filter soon...just a cycling question.

Thanks guys

if you are taking a filter from an established aquarium and putting it on a new tank then in theory you are cycled because cycling is basically establishing a biological filter, which you already have. However, there are things you have to take into account. If the filter rated for your new aquarium? In other words if you are taking a filter from a 55 gallon tank and putting it on a 125 gallon tank then you will not have enough filtration. If both tanks are the same size then you are okay. Another factor to bear in mind is what fish you have been keeping in the established aquarium. If it is then a few community fish than the filter will probably be overloaded on the new tank containing larger and more fish.

Can I suggest that you swap filters over quickly so you don't have it turned off for too long and certainly do not let any of the media dry out.

Also, make sure that the new water has been treated to remove any chlorine. If you run water containing chlorine through an established filter then you will be in trouble.

I plan to use stress coat to remove chlorine. I'll definately make it quick with the transfer of filters...thanks. Both of the tanks are the same size too.