I need help with setting up a new reef tank

[Saltwater_Reefing]

I have had a fluval evo 13.5 gallon for over a year and a half and I have a bio cube ready to be setup. I have 20 lbs of sand and 13 pounds of rock in the fluval. What all will I need to setup the bio cube? Can I use the rock and sand that I already have? I also have coral and will I be able to add them to the tank the same day I set the bio cube up?

 

[tzabor10]

Yes
Yes
I don’t like that idea, but everyone says yes.

 

[ScottJ]

You can transfer the rock. I might rinse the sand, your call. Transfer any media you have in the Evo. You should be able to add your coral right away.

 

[BristleWormHater]

I have had a fluval evo 13.5 gallon for over a year and a half and I have a bio cube ready to be setup. I have 20 lbs of sand and 13 pounds of rock in the fluval. What all will I need to setup the bio cube? Can I use the rock and sand that I already have? I also have coral and will I be able to add them to the tank the same day I set the bio cube up?

Is it live sand? If it is don't wash it, it will make dead sand

 

[BristleWormHater]

Is it live sand? If it is don't wash it, it will make dead sand

nvm if you are transferring sand I still wouldn't wash it, maybe rinse with RO or Saltwater to clear out debris

 

[Saltwater_Reefing]

You can transfer the rock. I might rinse the sand, your call. Transfer any media you have in the Evo. You should be able to add your coral right away.

should I get more live rock?

 

[ScottJ]

should I get more live rock?

More rock never hurt. Live rock is always better than dry rock!

 

[BristleWormHater]

should I get more live rock?

I've heard at least 1lb per gallon but if you want more shouldn't be an issue. I am not an expert I'm just suggesting what's been suggested to me

 

[PharmrJohn]

I've heard at least 1lb per gallon but if you want more shouldn't be an issue. I am not an expert I'm just suggesting what's been suggested to me

Used to be 1.5 to 2lbs per gallon. Not anymore. 1lb per gallon is just fine. Really, it depends on what kind of bioload you're planning on.

 

[RSNJReef]

I would definitely move the sand and rock over, but rinse your sand in old tank water to get the debris out but not over shock the bacteria in your sand bed. By giving it a good rinse you’ll loose a lot of the beneficial bacteria as it gets knocked off, but a decent amount will get transferred into your new tank . Also try and move around 20-30% or your old tank water into the new tank.