New 36 gal tank

[Tigercub79]

Hi guys! I need some advice on when it’s safe to add new fish. Let me give you some background first. Ive had a fully cycled 10 gal aquarium since August 2018. I got a new 36 gal tank in December, hoping to transition most of what’s in the 10 over to the 36. I ran the new filter alongside the old filter in my 10 gal for 6 weeks. I also moved most of the gravel and decorations from the 10 to the 36. One week ago I finally moved the new filter and most of the fish over to the new tank. I’ve been monitoring water conditions frequently. I’m consistently getting readings of 0 ammonia and 0 nitrite in the new tank. The nitrate has gone from about 5 to 10 this past week since the addition of the fish. Do you think there will be any ammonia or nitrite spike, or do you think it’s safe to begin adding new fish? Currently, there are 3 mollies, 3 cories, and 1 mystery snail. Please advise. I’m anxious to add some new fish, but I don’t want to jump the gun.

[Slaphppy7]

Sure, you can begin adding fish...I would go gradually, and check params as you go

[Boundava]

Agree with above, gradual so you allow the bacteria to meet the demand (waste produced) by your new fish. Congrats on your upgrade, are you keeping the 10 running as a possible QT tank?

[Tigercub79]

I’m keeping the 10g up and running for my betta. I’m thinking about adding a small group of schooling/shoaling fish to the 36g as well as 1-2 “showpiece” fish. Any suggestions?

[SueD]

With only 3 mollies and 3 cories in there you have plenty of room for additional stock. But as the others said, go slowly. I would definitely plan on adding 3 more cories of the same species you have, but maybe leave them to the end. Are the mollies breeding or are they all one sex?

[Tigercub79]

My mollies are all females. Any suggestions on schooling or “showpiece” fish to get along well with mollies and cories? I was really hoping to get 1-2 angelfish.

[Tigercub79]

Thanks for the input, guys! I got 3 young angels over the weekend. I couldn’t be happier. They’re beautiful fish!!E2694581-1F99-4C5F-9C54-D4799D6E1FB3.jpeg

[Tigercub79]

So far, my ammonia and nitrites are holding at 0. Nitrates are in the 10-20 range.

[Slaphppy7]

Congrats on your new fish, well done

Keep an eye on water params the next few days, to ensure the cycle supports the new bioload

[RiversGirl]

Congrats on your new fish. You've had a very nice upgrade from the 10. Your 10 is a lovely home for your betta, as well. Well done!