Dead Live Rock?

[ozquarium]

Hi guys,
So I've set my aquarium up and have three pieces of live rock in there to cycle it. It's only been in there for 3 days but the live rock has turned quite white in a lot of patches, which I assume means it's dying off in some way. Does this mean I need to get new rock to cycle the tank?

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

Nope. Most likely you're seeing the purple coralline algae dieing off or bleaching. This is pretty normal when the rock is exposed to air while setting up the tank, or during shipment/transport of the rock. In a few months down the road, you'll see the purple/red/greens come back.

All you need to cycle the tank is an ammonia source. If your rock had live stuff on it that is dieing off, it's supplying the ammonia your tank needs. Testing for ammonia and nitrites will tell you where you're at with the cycle.

 

[melosu58]

As Kurt said it will come back with a vengence. Welcome to AA

 

[ozquarium]

Thanks guys! Given my lack of experience, it's always good to have reassurance that things are on track.