Tank Not Cycling?

[NatBarry]

Ok, so you know I set up my 10 gallon again around 4 days ago, I added cycle (bacteria) and also a rock from one of my existing tanks that had some algae on. Although, it doesn't seem to be cycling or is it just me, there has been no cloudiness or anything. Is there a problem, is it ready for fish?
Nat

[TheOldSalt]

You used "Cycle" by Hagen?
If so, then no, your tank is not cycled, only seeded.
However, it is ready for fish, since without fish the tank will never cycle, unless you switch to a better brand of bacteria. Tetra SafeStart is available in England, I think, if you want instant results. If not, you can still do it the old fashioned way and get some fish.

[NatBarry]

Yeah by Hagen, I mean its only been running a few days but I would have expected to see results that it had started cycling. All I have the size for the tank is a malawi hybrid around 1-2 inches, could I move him in?

[NatBarry]

Couldnt I just drop a few flakes into the tank and then it will start the cycle by releasing ammonia?

[emc7]

Yep, just feeding the tank will make ammonia, you can 'fishless' cycle this way. Just remember to do a big water change before you add fish.

[NatBarry]

Thanks emc, ill try this, how often do I have to feed it? & wont the water change start the cycle again or mess it up?

[emc7]

the bacteria is mainly in the filter, there is some in the water, but not enough to be worth putting your fish in with high nitrates (hopefully, once the cycle goes), oil and protein floating on the water, and fungused lumps of food. It'll look nasty, but should siphon out fine. You want to feed the tank the same as you will once you have fish in it. the fish food to ammonia conversion is about the same whether or not you use fish.

[NatBarry]

Ok got it! Thanks