How did you cycle your nano tank? Details & best test ki

[Florida8]

I will add my water and rock a week from today... What can I expect cycling with shrimp? Water changes? Things have changed a bit since I set up my 1st tank back in the day when you used live damsels to cycle. How long will the cycle take approx. in this size tank with LR & and shrimp?

I will be using the 12 gallon mini bow and using live rubble in the HOB filter... should I add that after the cycle? What about a PH? What about running carbon - which I always did in the 55g? The only other thing is the Test kit.... which is the best and most accurate? And salt mix? There are a lot to choose instead of just IO like years ago.

Also, I don't have a RO system but there is a place here to buy it... are there any things I need to ask to make sure there is nothing hidden that could be harmful? Or should I just grab a type of shelf bottles water like distilled?

Sorry for all the questions.. but having a smaller tank I want to get it right the 1st time and avoid any mistakes

Thanks in advance,
Warmly,
Kimberly

 

[JamesR]

you can add the lr right away.

BUY THE RO water! Its cheap (especially for the nano) and will help prevent cyano.

water change 2 1/2 gal every 2 weeks or i'm thinking for mine 1 1/4 a week.

not sure about the carbon.

Jim

 

[ZoozFishMaster]

Definitely run the carbon. I assume you will not be running a protein skimmer, so IMO the carbon is a must. The carbon will remove dissolved organics and because you will be doing frequent water changes (i would do about 10% once a week) you will not have to worry about the carbon's effect on trace elements.

I would use a powerhead for better water circulation. I also recommend using Oceanic salt because it is high in calcium. I assume you will be maintaining calcium through water changes. HTH