The start up of a cycle from scratch is the slowest part. If you start with a partial bacterial colony, like with your existing LR, then the cycle times can be much lower. Think of it this way, if bacteria double every 10 mins, it will take longer to get to one million if you start with only one versus if you start with 10,000.
The bacterial colony will grow (or shrink) to the available ammonia supply. If your tank has finished cycling and then you leave it empty for a couple weeks, the colony may well decrease. Keep this in mind before you throw a bunch of fish in there.
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