Mini-Cycle from tank switch

[MichaelReefer]

jurgenph is correct, the dry rock needs time to grow a new biofilter. Even more reason to wait a while (I would say at least a month, more is better) before adding new fish, then add them very slowly, like 1 at a time. Allow the good bacteria time to keep up.

Yeah that was my plan. I was going to stock very slowly.

Now coral wise, after a month can I start stocking? Since there really isn't any waste? Or should I still wait.

 

[jurgenph]

So, how often should I do water changes? Should I keep to my 7-10 day schedule? Is it worth it since it's stocked so low right now and there isn't much waste? Should I allow time for the bacteria to spread and flow through the water column into the sump and etc before I do a water change?

unless you're observing a problem, let the tank run through it's paces.
do a water change when it's done cycling. maybe harder to measure right now, while you have both old and new rock in there. give it a month or so.


J.

 

[CindyKz]

Yeah that was my plan. I was going to stock very slowly.

Now coral wise, after a month can I start stocking? Since there really isn't any waste? Or should I still wait.

I'd wait. Allow things to become stable, it will increase your chances of success


As to the water changes, I personally would keep up with them. Bacteria doesn't really live in the water column as much as on rock and solid surfaces. If you DO have any ammonia or other undesirable buildup it's better for the health of the existing fish to get rid of it.

 

[MichaelReefer]

After my 12 hour day I finally got to get some pictures.

 

[MichaelReefer]

It look like what you guys think?

 

[CindyKz]

It looks like a sprinkle of diatoms to me. I don't think it's any indication of whether you will or have had any sort of cycle, or whether your upgraded tank is ready for new livestock.

 

[MichaelReefer]

Came home today and it looks like there is some red hair algea.