Converting my display tank into a quarantine

[ReefDreamer1126]

Currently my display tank is a 40 gallon IM Nuvo all in one tank. This has been a great tank for the time being but it is time to upgrade to a bigger tank. I just bought a 65 gallon cube with a sump and want to turn my Nuvo into a Permanent quarantine tank. I plan on using Seachem Matrix for my bio media and PVC fittings for places to hid for the fish. I just have a few questions. When I remove the rock and sand do I need to let the tank sit empty before putting my fish into it? I am hopefully planning on just transferring all my fish and coral into this tank until my 65 has cycled. Also any other tips or advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

 

[Crabs McJones]

When removing the sand you're going to kick up alot of detritus, and trapped gasses, and other nastiness. I would wait a little bit, test your water because you'll most likely see a nitrate spike. Do water changes as needed until your levels get back to where they need to be.

 

[ReefDreamer1126]

I stir my sand on a regular basis so I am not to worried about having a spike but I also have stability just in case I do see a spike.