"Tynk" wrote in message
ps.com...

Zëbulon wrote:

=============================
For now keep doing partial water changes until the cycle finishes. Don't
disturb the gravel or filter material as the good bacteria are tying to
hang
on and multiply. Keep feeding sparingly and keep us posted.
--
ZB....

Actually, they *should* vacuum the gravel during the cycling period.

That's not what I was told to do unless there was decomposing food on it.
And that advice has always worked for me. :-)

The nitrifying bacteria secrete a glue like substance and adhere to
every surface. They are NOT going anywhere. Vacuuming gravel isn't
going to budge them.

Then vacuum it. I'll do as I've always done since it works so well for me.

It would do more harm to the health of the tank *not* to vacuum during
a cycle.

True, if there is uneaten food or decaying plants lying on it. It's
whatever works for YOU. What works BEST for me is to feed lightly and do
enough partial water changes to keep the the ammonia/nitrites at not lethal
levels until the cycle is finished.
--
ZB....
Frugal ponding since 1995.
rec.ponder since late 1996.
My Pond & Aquarium Pages:
http://tinyurl.com/9do58
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