seeding LS

[got bait?]

I know the norm (if there is such a thing) is to set down some relatively life less base rock then add substrate around, and build up from that. When starting the cycle in a new tank, would it not help to have some die off deep in the sand bed. Would this not help to feed bacteria, by using LR with some life already on it? Or am I totally off by assuming there is a substantial amount of bacteria in the lower portians of a DSB. JAT

 

[reefrunner69]

The bacteria in the lower (anoxic) layers of the sand bed, do not process die off, they consume nitrates, aerobic bacterias process the die off and produce the nitrates that feed the anoxic bacterias. FWIW, I don't think it matters which you use, if you want a DSB to last for along time, I do not think it is best to cure your LR with your sandbed in place. I think that is one of the reasons we have seen some sandbeds crash after a few years, too much too fast.

 

[got bait?]

I do not think it is best to cure your LR with your sandbed in place. I think that is one of the reasons we have seen some sandbeds crash after a few years, too much too fast.

Won't I have another cycle if i add the LS after the original cycle and curing of the LR. I have changed my mind about the DSB in main tank. I will have 2' LS in main and 2" in fuge. Should I not add the LS in the fuge either until the original cycle is complete. Just seems like I would be cycling twice. Or do like you (Kevin) have said in the past, and just add the LS gradually?

 

[reefrunner69]

If it is not a DSB, it's fine to add the sand when you cure the rock.

As for a cycle, no the only way to get a new cycle is to increase the bioload beyond what your LR can process, unless the sand is not very good quality, I don't see it doing this.

 

[got bait?]

unless the sand is not very good quality, I don't see it doing this.

Meaning, not very alive right? Or not much of any organisms or both.

 

[reefrunner69]

meaning that is was packaged poorly etc and has experienced alot of die off in the sand.