Kind of depends whats on the rock when you get it. If there is macroalgae or coralline on it then yes run lights if you want it to stay alive. If no or not then no lights is fine. Running lights does increase the risk of having other algaes also.
I appreciate it, there is some coralline I might try to keep alive. Overall rock looked ok. UPS didn't deliver until 9:15 PM last night so I figured it was about 30 hrs. from the time it was dropped off until it got to me. Was wrapped in wet paper that was still damp when I opened the bag. Didn't smell that bad last night, has a faint smell this morning before I left to go to work. See what more has happened today when I get home from work.
I apologize, I didn't explain that very well. Rock was rinsed in saltwater last night as soon as it arrived and placed into the fully operational display tank. Sorry man, I didn't explain that very well.
No worries, just wanted to make sure... You can run your skimmer (If you haven't already) to aid in the collection of anything dying off, and run some carbon to help get rid of any smell. Water should look crystal clear in a day or two, and the stuff dying will help feed the bacterial colonies in the rock for a week or two. After that, start shadow feeding. And for now, just run your lights at a lower intensity just to keep the coralline and other photosynthetics alive. You may end up with some algae, so getting a cleaning crew in there will help with what's to come. I know you're on limited time before you head out of town, but try getting a package for your tank from ReefCleaners to arrive before you leave.
I really appreciate it man, that's some great info. I appreciate all who have taken the time to help. This is a great group of people.
