Upgrading From 10g to 36g

Hello all. I've had a 10 gallon FOWLR for over a year now, which has been a success. I've been thinking of upgrading to a larger tank, and have always wanted a bow front. It just so happens that my LFS has a 36g bow front with stand on sale for $200. This includes tank, stand, and hood with T8 bulbs. So for starters all I need in addition is filtration, heater, and eventually I can upgrade lighting and such when I wish to start with some corals.

My question for the forum is what considerations do I need to take when upgrading to a larger tank. I know I'll obviously have to set up the tank and let it cycle, then once cycling is complete I can move my fish over. But should I move some of my sand bed and live rock over to the new tank to promote bacteria growth? Or what steps do I need to take in upgrading? Is there anyway to speed up the process i.e. water from my current tank, buy ocean water, etc?

 

Here is what I would do. Mix all new water. make sure the temp, ph, SG, is the same as what is in your old tank. This is all very important. Beneficial bacteria does not live in the water column so dirty water will do you no good, especially if it's fish only. I probably wouldn't use all of the old sand but I would use enough to do maybe a really small layer across the top of your new sand. This will help seed the sand with good bacteria. You also want to make sure your LR is moved over. Have some "Prime" on hand just in case. I'm also a firm believer in Bio Spira from instant ocean. It's pretty expensive but very effective.

 

I hope that all helps you out a bit. last time I moved tanks in my living room, this is how I did it on a larger scale. I went from a 55 to a 150.

 

When using the method you suggest and the bio spira how long of a wait in between changing tanks do you need? Also what is "prime"?

 

I went straight across. The live rock contains your bacteria. As long as parms are in check and identical, you should be fine to just move everything over. This is Prime Seachem. Prime

 

I only have about 3.5 pounds of live rock. Would the rock and some of the sand be enough to do an immediate swap?

 

Someone else may chime in on this one. I would do it if it were me. How many fish and what type are in the tank?

 

Basic 10 gallon tank.
-2 Clown Fish
-3 Hermit Crabs
-3.5 lbs Live Rock
-Sand bed of ocean sand

 

With only the 2 clowns, I think you would be fine. Make sure you have some prime on hand and use some bio spira. BTW, My tank has been back up for about a week now and my ammonia and nitrites are at 0 and nitrates at 5. I'm a firm believer that the bio spira has done its job. Make sure you have some spare water on hand as well and be prepared to do water changes if necessary. I really think you will be fine.

 

I agree with everything daniel said. Just follow that step by step......just my .02