Cycle time?

[mike3epanda]

i think i'm ready to start my cycle once i get my LR.

I have
75 gal. tank w/ stand
heater
fluorescent lights
instant ocean salt mix
hydrometer
ph test kit (what is perfect btw?)
nitrate nitrite test
nitrate nitrite & ammonia remover (Amquel)
fluval filter
50 lbs of play sand
protein skimmer


i'm guessing i need ammonia test kit, powerheads, dechlorinator and some raw shrimps to start.
what u guys think?
thanks

[tecwzrd]

50 lbs of sand in a 75 will give you about 1.25" which is fine but another 25 lbs would give you closer to 2".

nh3 test kit is a must and the fluval filter will provide enough movement for cycling but eventually you will need a couple of 250+ GPH PH.

PH isn't an issue during the cycle as it fluctuates constantly during the 5-7 weeks during the cycle. For "perfect" parameters checkout Reef Aquarium Water Parameters.

[Kurt_Nelson]

Do not use the Amquel during your cycle. In fact, I wouldn't really recommend using it at all. If you have an ammonia/nitrite issue once you get residents in your tank, frequent and large water changes will be your best friend.

[tecwzrd]

Amquel is a good product for emergencies IMO. More can be read about the product here.

Granted you don't want to use it unless it's an emergency but disasters happen and unlike FW you can't always do frequent and large pwc to detoxify nh3/no2 quickly to save your expensive stock and having a "backup plan" while your SW is mixing is never a bad idea.

As for a dechlorinator using ro/di would be best for the purest water but if not then I'd use SeaChem Prime.

[melosu58]

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/articl...q=2&fldAuto=15

Good article to read on the cycle. I agree with Kurt dont use the amquel on your cycle. Any chance 0f using RO or RO/DI water instead of tap water. How much LR?

[mike3epanda]

ima get RO/DI unit in after cycle....

[Kurt_Nelson]

Originally Posted by tecwzrd

Amquel is a good product for emergencies IMO. More can be read about the product here.

Granted you don't want to use it unless it's an emergency but disasters happen and unlike FW you can't always do frequent and large pwc to detoxify nh3/no2 quickly to save your expensive stock and having a "backup plan" while your SW is mixing is never a bad idea.

As for a dechlorinator using ro/di would be best for the purest water but if not then I'd use SeaChem Prime.

Agreed. I've got a bottle myself, but it's kind of in one of those "In Case Of Emergency, Break Glass" type boxes!

I came close to using it in my QT recently, but had enough patience to let the bacteria catch up while doing big water changes.