reef sand instant cycle... just add fish

[Kirktimm]

Originally Posted by paddyob

The best thing is ensure you get a test kit.

A tank crash causes die off even on the rock.

Add your sand and rock. Let it sit 3/4 weeks and then test it. You want ALL tests of ammonia, nitrate, nitrite to come at zero. Any levels detectable mean you are cycling.

The good bacteria is still there, it's the die off that needs to "disappear" or become neutralized and removed by filters.

Personally I say 4 weeks. 6 in extreme cases. Just let it sit. Watch the tank go through the cycle. The remaining bacteria will populate again once the toxins are gone. Your live sand will HELP. As will water changes.

There are also bacteria cultures you can add.

Dont take me wrong. I just lay it out. No offense was meant. Just be patient and get through your cycle and the tank will prosper.

Good luck.

Will do and thank I'll update with a live stock pic in 6 to 8 weeks.

[tim the toolman]

In 6-8 weeks a livestock pic should hopefully only be a couple of fish tops.
They say the only thing that happens fast in this hobby is failure. Remember that we set up our systems to survive for many years. So waiting several weeks is just a drop in the bucket compared to the overall goal.
View your tank as a work of art and your fish as companions/pets and the time involved in their happiness will be well worth it.
Good luck with this set up by the way. Hope all goes well this time around.

[Megalodon]

There's an easy way to tell. Get a $3 bottle of cleaning ammonia from the store, add some of this alleged "live" bacteria and some ammonia to a bucket of NSW, and see if it turns it to nitrate.

[Kirktimm]

Originally Posted by tim the toolman

In 6-8 weeks a livestock pic should hopefully only be a couple of fish tops.
They say the only thing that happens fast in this hobby is failure. Remember that we set up our systems to survive for many years. So waiting several weeks is just a drop in the bucket compared to the overall goal.
View your tank as a work of art and your fish as companions/pets and the time involved in their happiness will be well worth it.
Good luck with this set up by the way. Hope all goes well this time around.

Just two clowns fish I don't know what kind but I've always like them had some befor my tank crash just 2 fishes is all I had for my 20 gal and clean up crew that all I'm gonna get for awhile

[Kirktimm]

And can I add some lps coral like 1 or two or just wait until the fish settle down?? This is the part I'm not sure about getten just lps for now or just stick with fish after the cycle for 4 to 6 weeks

[Reef Supplies]

The faster you drive the harder you crash.

Ray