New tank just set it up cube 12 first saltwAter tank

[deckaman225]

Everything is good but I don't wanna add to quick I'm gonna either order my two spot Blenny or get one of the other fish I wanted if it's in stock but I'm only gonna get one then let the BB build up for a couple weeks or more befor I get anything else

[Macscale]

Well, there are other reasons besides nitrates that we do water changes. Ex: Replacing trace elements.

[deckaman225]

Got some GSP looks pretty sweet

Everything is looking good all params are 0 except the nitrate made sure I read instructions and so it just how it says!!
No fish yet took them damsels back and haven't found no tail spot Blenny or any gobys I would like so I might order one or just have my lfs order them..
Still have the two emerald crabs!!

[deckaman225]

Next coral I want is brain coral and candy cane and some zoanthids.

[Macscale]

Alright, stay on top of the GSP they grow like a weed.

[deckaman225]

Yeah I heard they do grow really fast and can take over

[deckaman225]

So my GSP is doin good I can tell it's growing the purple base but it's not coming out anymore i read that it could have to much water flow any one know anything about this coral??

[BigRedsReefs10]

How did you acclimate the coral?

[deckaman225]

I did a drip for about two to three hrs it was out and everything for the first three days then it is just a few here and there.. But the purple stuff is growing pretty fast it's only been in there 5 days all params are 0 lighting is at about 45%

[BigRedsReefs10]

Have you been changing the lighting intensity?

[deckaman225]

Yes I have is that bad it wouldn't come out at first at lower so I moved it up and it did but know it won't!!

[BigRedsReefs10]

You should not raise it more than 5% in a week IMO. Lower it back down and let it acclimate to your lights

[deckaman225]

Ok thanks I appreciate it

[deckaman225]

Where should I start at 5% or like 20% or somthing??

[BigRedsReefs10]

I would say 5-10% and go from there

[deckaman225]

Ok I will thank you!!

[deckaman225]

I checked my ph level and it was low like 7.4 I did a small WC and know its good could that keep the coral from opening?

[BigRedsReefs10]

Try pointing your power head towards the surface for a little more agitation. Ph is always a little low in the winter, but as long as it's stable your ok.

[Sk3lly]

Originally Posted by deckaman225

My cycle 1 is complete all back to zero or very close nitrate was high but did a 50% water change and all looks good gonna add two damsels and let them go for a week or so then take them back and get what I want! I will post a pic when I get tests done!! And fish acclimated!!

Hello I'm from the planted tank side but enjoy reading the salty side as i also have a strong interest in reef tanks. I had really enjoyed reading your thread until this point. In my opinion what you suggested doing here is very poor form. The reason i think this is poor, you are introducing fish to your tank knowing conditions are not perfect. Ammonia burns the gills and the damage is not reversible. You then return this fish. Now Joe Bloggs might walk in off the street into the same fish store expecting to buy a healthy damsel. That damsel isn't healthy though and may die a little down the line. If you want a fish then keep it. If you don't want it then don't buy it!!!!. I also don't think you understand the cycling process fully. Just because your original ammonia had lowered does not mean you are cycled.
Hope this hasn't caused offence and this was not my intentions. Jus stating my opinion

[deckaman225]

Yeah that's why I took them back ammonia was 0 and nitrate and nitrite but I didn't think it thru to much my tank only needs one fish right know I have done more research and understand the cycle better!! The fish were doin great they went back healthy the ammonia never rose at all.