Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I'm getting ready to start a new system and wondering what my risks are using filter squeezings from a small koi pond I have in my greenhouse to jump start the cycle. The fish are healthy, there is lots of Algae and there may be snail eggs (if they survived the 40 degree winter water.) I haven't seen any snails in 6 months, but a few showed up last summer that I took care of.

Besides all the needed bacteria, I'm sure I'll pick up algae and moss spores, but those will show up anyway I think. If snails get in the system, the tilapia should eat them, right?

Anyone have any suggestions?

Gunk from an established system is good stuff. Go for it.

Unless you are actually taking a piece of filter material for bacteria boost, then some scoops of water should be equivalent. No need to hassle with the filter.

Yep, and if you have any terracotta pots, aquascape items etc. in the existing pond adding thm would also help move things along