changing substrate in a dp tank

[frenchie]

So I posted this over at the dwarfpuffer forum but I thought I'd post it here too, just to get more opinoins.

I have been considering switching over my 5 gallon dwarf puffer tank from fake decorations to a planted tank. I have some questions and concerns first.

Here is the current tank:

The plan would be to go with driftwood, and low light plants, eco-complete, nothing that is shown in the tank now would stay. I'm pretty fond of the litte guy as I've had him longer than any of my other fish, and don't want to risk anything.

-Can i just put the puffer(and two shrimp) in a bucket while I make the switch, or will the tank have to re-cycle because of the massive change of substrate and decorations?

[Nick]

If you leave the filter fully dirty for two weeks before the change, and at least two weeks after, and feed a bit sparingly during the first couple weeks with the new setup, it SHOULD be ok. Most tanks that are well-matured have about twice the beneficial bacteria they absolutely need to function... half in surfaces of the tank, primarily the substrate, and half in the filter. So you can change it all at once, given that you mind the filter bacteria colony is at full maturity. If you are less than 100% sure of the long-term stability of the cycle, do as above and let the filter media ripen for a min. of two weeks, then change JUST the substrate, but none of the decor. Then gradually over the new few weeks, while NOT ever rinsing the filter out, replace plastic plants with real and as a final step, replace the molded rock with the driftwood. Then wait at least two more week before cleaning the filter.

[frenchie]

thanks, nick. First I added some of the plants and the new canister filter to the tank, then I put most of the filter media into my new canister filter ant all seems to be fine. Here was the tank after the change:

the plants are still settling in, but the puff seems to love it. I see her/him? exploring much more and not being so shy. I thinking about adding one more, any thoughts?

[Pufferpunk]

I like that MUCH better! I bet the puffer does too.