Initial Stocking Order

[Vinh]

I looked around but could not find an answer. After my cycle I know I should stock slowly but in what order for the initial month.

Option A:

1. start with 1-2 fish
2. two weeks later 1 coral (thinking maybe coral would be beneficial for tank)
3. two weeks later initial CUC (1 crab, 2 snails)

Option B:

1. start with 1-2 fish
2. two weeks later initial CUC (1 crab, 2 snails)
3. two weeks later 1 coral

 

[Duke4Life]

Tanks don't benefit from coral, coral benefit from stable, properly lit tanks.
I'd go go CUC, fish, coral. But QT all fish 1st.

 

[Vinh]

Hmmm. I didn't even consider not putting fish first. I thought putting 1-2 fish in first will keep the beneficial bacteria fed. I suppose CUC could do that too but I assume it would take more to equal a couple fish. Are you suggesting CUC first to get the tank more stable before adding fish?

 

[Duke4Life]

No they help clean the algae that will follow a newly cycled tank and helps add more of a bio load. Did you ghost feed to cycle? What size tank? The key thing is not to rush and never think you know more than what you thought.

 

[Vinh]

10 gallon nano.

I'm definitely taking my time. Just doing my homework. It'll be a few weeks before the cycle is done (yes, ghost feeding).