cleaning gravel

Question
I have a 12 gallon tank that has recently been completely depopulated due to new tank syndrome, and I'm waiting for the nitrites to decline before I get new fish.  Based on other all-experts advice, I'm thinking about getting 4-6 new fish (building up slowly), including perhaps a couple of platies, and something else (no more mollies!!).  My question is this: how often do you recommend cleaning/vacuuming the gravel? I've heard mixed things about not disturbing the bacteria that develop there; that stirring up the gravel increases the nitrites in the water; etc.  I've even been told that no one even uses gravel vacuums anymore.  Can you clear this up for me?
thanks!!

Answer
Hiya Judy

I've heard the same about cleaning new tanks. I believe new tanks as well as established tanks, need the gravel to be cleaned. I've been cleaning the gravel using a gravel vac once a week since I setup my first aquarium and I haven't lost any fish to new tank syndrome. Contrary to what you've been told, most aquarist use gravel vacs. I use a gravel vac once a week. It is also how I perform my water changes. When finished vacuuming the gravel, about 20% - 30% of the water is siphoned out. Replace it with clean water and conditioner.

I'm sorry to hear about your loss to new tank syndrome. Cycling a tank is easy, but it does take time. I can setup an almost instant cycled tank using sponge filters, which were recommended to me by another expert on this forum. But you have to have already cycled tanks in your home when using this method. What I recommend for you to do is add 4-6 Zebra Danios. You can also add 4 of the Zebras and 1 or 2 platies that you mentioned. Let them cycle the tank for 4-6 weeks, then add the rest of the fish you want, one a week until you have reached capacity. Remember to perform your weekly water changes and change the filter media at least once a month Hope this helps you!

Richard