Looking to get a few things clarified...

JK’s Reef · Aug 24, 2019

New to the hobby. I have an off make of the NUVO Sr60. The tank has been cycling for a full 3 weeks now with dry rock. The first week I introduced shrimp to the tank to decay. Week 3 I have been using Stabilizer and Prime. A buddy also gave me one live rock with a hardy Xenia and zoas growing. The live rock and it’s mates have been doing well.

My tank is currently beginning the stage of diatoms and some traces of algae growth. To date my ammonia levels are relatively non existent along with my nitrite levels. My nitrate levels officially began to decrease.

Question 1...Is it time to perform my first water change of 20-20%?

Question 2...At this time I have no protein skimmer. Should I now begin running this for the tank?

Question 3...Can a cleanup crew be introduced at this time? If so, what do you recommend mainly to clear my sandy floor and little algae?

Hitman · Aug 24, 2019

Well if your adding prime during your cycle it is stalling it as prime binds the ammonia vs allowing it to convert to nitrite

1: Yes I would do a water change strictly to get that prime out

2: Nope no skimmer or lights during the cycle in my opinion

3: Nope to early for CUC yet it’s part of the cycle that needs to happen

Take things slow, don’t rush them, The best advice in this hobby anyone can tell you is “ Nothing good happens fast in this hobby “

Paul B · Aug 24, 2019

I would also say No to all those questions. 3 weeks is nothing in the life or cycle of a tank. Go out to dinner and relax.

Tiger Brown · Aug 24, 2019

+100 on what @Hitman said. Also good for you for taking the time to ask. And, welcome to R2R!

JK’s Reef · Aug 24, 2019

Ok great! I appreciate the help. I am on a budget so taking my time is not an issue.

CindyKz · Aug 24, 2019

JK’s Reef said:
Ok great! I appreciate the help. I am on a budget so taking my time is not an issue.

Budgets are great incentive to be patient aren't they?

Welcome to R2R!

JK’s Reef · Aug 24, 2019

;Joyful

Auquanut · Aug 24, 2019

Welcome to the REEF! You've gotten some good advice and the fact that you're getting diatomes and algae is a good sign. I would definitely stop the prime. So, lets see that tank.