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tank dimensions = 3ft x 15in x 18in

Ok, i do have another tank already established, all i really need to know is how to establish this tank, ive seen in a lot of threads that i can use the gravel and some filter media to help kick start the process. Also the gear im getting is all 2nd hand. I was thinking of doing the fishless cycle again, but wanted to know if NIC is the way to go now. So yeah thats really my biggest query.

Also i need/want suggestions for my tank occupants. I want bright/colourful/fun fish. Also i would love like a mini feature fish. And i don't want any of the same fish i already have, but maybe the bristlenose as i need a clean up crew.

Also the tank will have light but the source of the light is from the sun, and it only lasts for maybe half the day, so im thinking i can't have a planted tank. And no i'm not buying lights for this one. So yeah just more info

Post away thanks

As for establishing your tank, you could run the filter that will go in the 42 on the 55 tank for a bit. Bacteria will build up, but you will have a mini-cycle when the filter goes onto the new tank. NIC will help the cycle, I recommend using it.

There are so many options for stocking, you need to narrow it down more. Do you want cichlids, or a bio-type, or a peaceful community, aggressive community?

About the whole sunlight thing. Is this tank going to be in direct sunlight? If it is, the sun will screw around with the temp too much, raising it in the day and then the temp will go down in the night. I got a light for my 50 gallon at Big Al's for 25 bucks.

Here is the URL for big Als.
http://bigalsonline.com

ok my tank is now filled with water, so tomorrow can i get some NIC and start adding fish? Also does anyone have any sites that talk about cycling with NIC. And for fish stocking options im open for all types, just post what YOU would put in this sized tank.

I suppose it will have to be cichlids as it won't be planted. It has a total of four rocks in the tank atm. So yeah i think im going with cichlids

What is your pH and water hardness? That depends on what type of cichlids go in your tank. Also, I wouldn't recommend cycling with any cichlid.

Is the tank in direct sunlight?

nah it's not in direct sunlight.

I wasn't thinking of cycling with any cichlids. At the moment im trying to fix a couple of leaks, so yeah im still making sure the tank doesn't leak before i start doing anything with it, but im pretty sure i've found the spots of where the leaking is, so not long now.

Any fishy recommendations?