Switch over

I'm getting ready to upgrade from a 20 tall to a 40 breeder. What would be the best way to do this ? Should I have about 20 gallons in the 40 and move the live rock over and then add the water from my 20 in to top off the 40. Trying to avoid a cycle if possible. Any advice would be great. Thanks.

 

I think that plan would work.

 

+1

The old water won't help prevent a cycle- the live rock does. Make sure you keep it wet during the transfer. To be clear, I still don't agree with tossing out old water unless it's dirty; that's just a waste of water and salt. Furthermore, old tank water is mature and stable, and it will help lessen the parameter swings inherent of new tanks.

 

I'm also using the tank water from my 20 to go with the fresh made water. And live rock from my 20. Probably won't use the sand though. Maybe a couple scoops. Seems like using the old sand will be more trouble than it's worth.

 

Sounds like a good plan,just keep in mind that the biosystem in your new tank needs to grow and mature.It would be wise to feed lightly and not add any livestock for awhile.

 

I have 5 fish and corals to transfer over.

 

You're on the right track. I've made similar transfers- including livestock- several times with no issues at all.

 

I got my 20 switched over to the 40 breeder. Used about 20 gallons of new mixed salt water and the water from my 20. I'm guessing it was about 15 gallons. After a couple of days I checked all my params. Ammonia was at 0.25. Nitrate and Nitrite was at 0. Cal at 450. Alk at 10. Mag about 1600 ( to high ). SG at 1.025. I noticed today on a few rocks it looks like I have the start of diatoms. I know this is normal for new tanks but should this be happening with 15 gallons and about 40 lbs of live rock that has been going for a year ?

 

If you used new sand, it may take a couple of weeks for it to cure. During that time, yes you'll see diatoms and maybe a small algae bloom. Don't stress over it though- it'll all disappear on it's own.

 

Yeah I used new sand. I figured using the old sand would cause more problems than it was worth. Always heard if you stir the sand up it can release all kinds of toxins.