55 started

[dizzyliz]

Well, i got it for xmas, a new 55 gal, the water is in and the sand is settling still cloudy but it's only been an hour. I figure I will get the live sand bed going, I borrowed a cup, and when things settle will start the filter, using a wet dry filter and have a cartridge filter standing by. Figure in a day or 2 will get the cartridge filter going and get the water cleared up then get the wet dry going... in a week i figure i will pickup some base rock and order some LR... I hope I am on the right track with the startup.

FYI anyone in southern New Jersey the Home Depot in Turnersville still has tropical play sand.


--Liz

 

[michealprater]

Sounds like a good start. But I would save my money that you were going to spend on a mechanical filter, and go with some live rock.

 

[dizzyliz]

Well, I am definitely looking at LR. My tank started cycling and the ammonia is climbing. I still have 0 nitrite but nitrates are at 10. I would like to start adding LR but not sure if i can add it now that the tank has started to cycle. Been eyeing about 30 lbs of base and 40 lbs of keys and 40 lbs gulf at liverocks.com.

 

[michealprater]

Yes, the rock will only aid in the cycling process. In fact it is the best time to add it.

 

[dizzyliz]

Thanks gonna place my order early next week and get something interesting to look at in the tank besides sand.