New nano

[msitework]

I have started a new 8 gal nano tank. I used some cured LR, Live sand & established water from my other tank. The only thing that is new is the bio wheel filter (rated for a 20 gal). Am I still going to have to wait for the full cycle? How long before I can put my cleanup crew in there?
Thanks

 

[lefty]

Yes, you'll want to wait for the full cycle to make sure your livestock will be safe and happy. If the LR was already cured, you may want to put a cocktail shrimp in your tank to speed up the cycle. If you have a testkit, I suggest you check your levels daily (ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, etc). A lot of times, a cycle can take up to two weeks before it's done. However, some have had tanks cycle in a matter of three days. It's really just dependent on the tank itself. Once your levels go down to zero, go ahead and start adding livestock.
-lefty