Bacteria

[chris]

Can Bacteria be maintained in a tank with gold fish and an internal filter with gravel bottom With no heater
Im asking this question because I have a 2foot breeding tank, with goldfish in it, but Im not ready to use it yet
Would it be ready to go if I keep it like this for a few months then turn the heater on and stick a pair in it

[DR.V]

bacteria can grow in non-heated water for sure .

[DR.V]

ah ... also make sure you maintain the good bacteria inside the filter , or add CYCLE when you ready for the pair

[Merrilyn]

Absolutely. Just make sure they are healthy gold fish, and not so called ' feeder fish' which may carry disease.

[Fishpimpin73]

Although you CAN keep goldfish in a non heated aquarium....

Bacteria grow at an extremely slower rate and it takes longer to create a stable ecosystem.

The most important thing to remember with gf tanks is WC frequency.
Goldfish naturally produce an ammonia based enzyme that can have adverse effects on your bio filter.
GF also produce copious amounts of waste that also can inhibit the growth of bio bacteria.

The key to healthy GF tanks is frequent water changes, and very careful stocking.

HTH

[flukes]

I wouldnt risk it, when your ready too put discus in their ditch the gold fish and do a fishless cycle..... Alot safer and gets you off too a flying start.