cycling a new tank

Question
I have a 90 gal tank and would like to know how many fish and what type should I use to cycle the tank. My goal is to keep guppies, mollies and plats.  Also, would moving rocks and a plant or two from my established 29 gal cold water tank be helpful or harmful?  Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hi Pete;

As many rocks and plants from the old tank as possible would be very helpful in getting the bacteria colonies started. You could put in 10 to 15 guppies at the same time to get it through the break-in period. But, you might consider a "Fishless Cycle". You add a source of ammonia to feed the bacteria colonies such as non-sudsing liquid ammonia, a few cocktail shrimp, or just simply fish food every day until it is done, usually in less than 4 weeks. It goes faster than using fish because you will raise the temperature to 82f. Test for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates as it goes along so you know what stage it's in. It doesn't risk the health and lives of your fish, it just goes through the process. Here is more information about it;

http://aquatic-terrors.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=5843

Good luck and I hope it all goes well!

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins