Bacteria in newly cycled tank

[Mdiesel]

I have just finished cycling a 24 gallon nano- cube with live rock and live sand. The ammonia and nitrite are both at zero. I plan on doing a large water change today to reduce my nitrate today. However I will not be able to pick up my clean-up crew for at least one more week. Will my helpful bacteria be to survive this long without anything producing ammonia to feed them?

 

[EriksFish315]

No you will need to be feeding it something

 

[Mdiesel]

Will fish food work?

 

[Mpfaff77]

Yes. Even a CUC won't produce ammonia would still have to feed tank. Maybe get Chromis??? Very cheap. Usually 5 bucks around me.

 

[Mdiesel]

It's already been cycled , I just need maintain the bacteria I built up.

 

[Mpfaff77]

Yea I got what you were saying. You need to feed tank for ammonia to be produced
For the nitrifying bacteria to convert. A fish will also do this.

 

[Mdiesel]

Ok I hear that, but will the chromis bully any fish I purchase in the future?

 

[Mpfaff77]

Chromis are pretty docile. I wouldn't recommend any damsels tho. They would be the bullies in the saltwater world. Could also add clownfish as well if not interested in Chromis. But clowns would be more expensive than a Chromis.

 

[Mdiesel]

Ok , I'll try that. Thanks

 

[EriksFish315]

Yes your deffinetly are going to need fish or some sort of ammonia source.