I lost Big Red today. Looks like my journey will start

[Morpheus]

I think i might just fill my tank with IO to start my cycle. do I just put the live rock in the tank the same time as the water?

[Corty]

I'm sorry for your loss.

You can mix the saltwater in the tank since there's nothing living in it. Once it's mixed, you can put in the rock.

[Morpheus]

not the same water that is in my tank right now? I should change it first right?or would a fully cycled FW set up speed my SW cycle?

[Corty]

Your FW bacteria will not survive in SW. You'll need to re-cycle. Are you planning on using your freshwater gravel for substrate?

[Morpheus]

I dont have gravel I use large stone...but I'm gonna get sand and crushed coral

[seaham358]

Pass on the CC, it looks nice but over time it will need to be cleaned on a regular basis and will trap waste, breaking down into nitrate.
Go with sand...... 2-3 " is fine. Large stone what type not all stones can go in SW set ups.
i would empty, clean and refill tank with new ro, ro/di water.

[Morpheus]

I'm not going to keep them in the tank but they are polished black stones