How long is too long to start adding ammonia?

[DWick180]

I have had my live rock, live sand, saltwater set up in my 29 gallon tank for 3-4 days, with the filter running. Did I wait too long to add ammonia if I add it tomorrow? Did all the bacteria die without the ammonia? ,ay be kind of a newbie question, but just worried about messing up.

 

[Mebbid]

There is actually very likely some die off from the live rock already supplying some ammonia. It might be worth testing the water before adding ammonia to see how the water is doing. However, to answer your question, no you didn't screw anything up. Bacteria will go a month or more without food before dying off.

 

[Rmckoy]

There is no rule saying you have to wait before starting the cycle .
Add your ammonia source ASAP .
The faster you start it , the faster you can start adding your livestock
What method are you using ?
Dosing and testing ?
Raw shrimp
Or using live hardy fish ?