Live Rock, Marco Rock and Live Sand

[UB400]

I'm planning on a 125 Gallon DT ( haven't decided on Sump size yet). From what I understand the "rule of thumb" is 2lbs per Gallon, taking into consideration density of the rock and making allowance for livestock population density.

Given upcoming travel commitments, I would probably leave the tank running/cycling with only the Live Rock for a month. I was thinking of getting about 50 lbs of cured live rock with the rest in Marco rock (I was hoping to probably break up a fair quantity of the Marco rock and some live rock and place it in the Sump.

Should I leave the Skimmer running, should I leave some CUC in the DT and Sump? Would it then be possible at the end of the month to then introduce a small soft coral or two, with maybe one or two hardy fish? I understand that it can take as much as 5 months for all the rock to get seeded with bacteria.

Would using bacteria starters such as Pdibio products help in speeding up the process? Live rock where I live is very expensive. I would be adding some live sand such as Caribsea Live Sand, about half an inch or so, I would like to keep a minimal sand bed.

Thanks.

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Hi there,

First off you do not need 2lbs a gallon or even 1lb a gallon. That old rule is one of those reefing myths! I would shoot for what you like as far as looks go. I personally use around 50-60lbs of rock in a 135g.

Will there be anyone at your place during this month you are away?

 

[UB400]

Thanks revhtree. Well I won't be away for a whole month, I will be away for the first 7 days of the Month and then later travelling for the last 10 days of the Month.