How to start the nitrogen cycle in fish tank?

Question

Hi, im looking at starting up my first freshwater fish tank, and need to start the nitrogen process before adding fish.

I was just wondering, what ways could i start the cycle without adding live fish. i dont really want to start it with live fish, due to the build up of ammonia what will occur in the tank which may cause stress and harm to the fish.

any help would be apprieciated

Regards

Richard

Answer 1

Do you pan on having a placo (algae eater)?  you could have that in there for it to cycle.  I am cycling my larger tank now and have 2 tetras, placo and shubumkin.  my first tank had feeder gold fish and an algae eater in it and they were all fine, same with my pond outside.    Depending on the size depends on the number of fish you can have to cycle the tank.  a 10 gal is 1-2 and a 30 is 3-4 including algae eaters.  it is recommented to use a hearty fish when cycling and any pet store you get your fish will help you choose what is best from what you want to have,