Live sand and Live Rock

[landshark]

Does anyone know how long it takes to cycle a saltwater tank with these to things ? Plus I used a filter from a cycled tank to move things along...

 

[Bectan01]

Depends on the tanks size and rock/sand ratio. I used all live and took about 2 weeks but I waited 3 just to be safe...

 

[baron1282]

It took me three weeks for a 29 gallon tank. When I moved it all from my 29 gallon to my 55 gallon it was cycled right away. Thankfully!

 

[mr_X]

It depends on how much die off is on the rock/sand. This must decompose and turn into ammonia, then nitrite, then nitrate.
If the rock is already cycled, and it was not out of water for long, you may completely skip a cycle, and just see a diatom bloom on the new surfaces.

 

[baron1282]

I will say that even though I used live rock and sand, I also put some dead uncooked shrimp in the tank to help the cycle.

 

[landshark]

After 3 days my ammonia is 0......my nitrites are 0 ......but my nitrates are a tad bit high....I did a 10% water change to help lower my nitrates......thanks for the advice...

 

[mr_X]

Use some ammonia and see if you have a bacteria colony strong enough to process it, before you add livestock thinking the tank is ready.

 

[landshark]

Thanx Mr X.....household ammonia??

 

[baron1282]

It has got to be pure ammonia. I think hardware stores sell it. Good luck!

Also if your tank is cycled, take it slow with adding fish. One at a time and let the bacteria build up.

 

[landshark]

Will do thanks alot!!