I got rock that was cutivated from the ocean. I did have alot of time. I used a tub from HD, set up a protein skimmer and some powerheads and heaters. Cycled it for about 2-3 months. A bit on the long side, but I did have time. In that time I would examine it from time to time for pests and caught out anything that I didn't want. I have had it in my DT now for 4 months and have not seen any unwanted pests.