Buying a used tank

[blkhawk10]

I'm looking into upgrading my 29 gallon to a 55 gallon my buddy is breaking down...I was wondering if there would be any problems transferring corals and fish over immediately if I put the water and rocks from the 29 into the 55 and fill the rest with new SW?

 

[shoelaceike]

Sure. I've done it 3 times. I always used new sand

 

[blkhawk10]

Would it be ok to use the rocks that he has or does that run a risk of holding nitrates and phosphates and leaching them into the tank?

 

[jamespensado]

I'm looking for a 30... Let me know

 

[thehammer1985]

Definitely put the rocks and water in. However do not use the sand. You can utilize it only if you have enough time and patience to rinse it off. But in my opinion its not even worth it just buy another bag or two line the bottom and slowly transfer over The Rock water and top off with new fresh water. I have done this several times and never had an issue.

 

[shoelaceike]

Yup. if you don't use the rocks everything will die....the water doesn't really matter as long as you acclimate to it...

 

[blkhawk10]

So I could use his tank water too?

 

[shoelaceike]

You should just add new water.

 

[tigerdragon]

Also use either bio spira or stresszyme to help increase bacteria this will help minimize any cycle that may occur

 

[shoelaceike]

Why would there be a cycle if the same rock is used? (Of course needs to be kept alive)