sponge filter and bacteria

Just another quick question. I am using a sponge filter for my quarantine tank and have placed it in my display tank with lr and live sand in order for bacteria to grow on it. How long do you think I should leave it in the tank?

 

till your cycles done

 

I agree, should help speed it up too...

 

My Ignorance

Sorry, I'll show my ignorance. What do you mean when you say not till your cycles are done ?

 

Who said anything about cycling - did I miss something, sorry if so...

Guitarman, I read an article some time back that suggested always keeping a sponge filter in your system in the event you need to use your QT 00 that way its always on hand and ready. Initially I would think 2-3 weeks and it will have plenty of bacteria growing.

I might go with two sponges so you can have a second growing bacteria

Edit: did a quick google and found this site mentioning it: http://www.flippersandfins.net/articelhospital.htm

 

Sponge filters can be used when cycling an initial tank throught the nitrogen cycle.

 

...and, in the case of the QT tank, lets you run a QT tank only when you need it, as a sponge will have enough bacteria to keep up with one or two fish, not have a major cycle, and can then go back into the DT until the next time it's necessary.

 

I saw on craigslist that they were selling their used sponge filters with bacteria growth to help cycle peoples tanks faster.

 

What does DT mean ?

I am not sure if you answered my question or not. I guess I am thick. ( LOL )
Could I run my cannister filter, that usually has ammonia chips, charcoal & a sponge ,with just 3 sponges, in addition to my sponge filter, in my discus tank ? I would think it would make the water that much more pure. I notice quite a bit of turbulance is made by the sponge filter. I thought discus liked calmer waters, but it doesn't seem to scare them off. I do a water change & vacuuming twice a week. Is that enough for a discus tank ?

One more question. How many gallons are in a tank 36" long, x 12 5/8 x inches wide &
18" deep ?

QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS !

Thanks everyone for your help & patience. !

It is a gorgeous day here in Eastern Canada !!

 

it's ok. DT means display tank, just as QT means quarantine tank. I think those dimensions are for a 30g long tank. I don't know much about discus; I'll leave that question for others to answer.