Re-using goldfish tank for other kinds of fish?

[oh_my_goshman]

I moved my goldfish into a bigger tank a while back. I have a left over 10 gallon tank that I am considering using for new fish (not goldfish). My question is would it be better to use water from the existing fish tank so that all the bacteria is ready or would it be better to start the tank from scratch. Any recommendations on a small fish that would live well in a 10 gallon tank?

 

[catx]

The bacteria does not reside in the water column but in the gravel and filter media. If the conditions in the tank are fine - no chronic illnesses or bad water quality - the equipment should be fine for other fish, just do a good 50% water change and test the water carefully.

Add a heater and a wealth of little fish options open up to you, well I say wealth, a few more than without a heater!

Have a read of this:
http://www.theaquariumwiki.com/10_Gallon

 

[lj1]

It would be best to clean the 10 gallon aquarium out, and start over from scratch, especially if you want to put tropical fish in it.

For a tank that size, tetras would be a good choice. You could get a few neon tetras, and a couple of other kinds of tetras. A corydora panda or two wouldn't hurt. Just make sure you get a good heater, and keep the water temperature in the mid 70's.