NEW TO SALTWATER

markyc123 · Feb 10, 2021

Hey what's going on guys. I am new to saltwater and have a few questions that you guys can hopefully help with. I have the EVO 13.5 gallon with live sand and 3 live rocks in it. I was wondering how long I should let that cycle alone before adding fish? Also, if there was anything I should add to help safely speed up the process and make it the best tank for future fish. THANK YOU FOR THE HELP!

lapin · Feb 10, 2021

markyc123 said:
I have the EVO 13.5 gallon with live sand and 3 live rocks in it.

If it is Live Rock, like just out of the ocean or a tank, and LIve Sand your tank is basicly cycled. You can add a fish now. I would test for ammonia just to be sure it was live rock

vetteguy53081 · Feb 10, 2021

Run 3 weeks and start monitoring your tank with test kits
Please don’t use api kits which will give you false readings and discourage you from the onset

NJBillyV · Feb 10, 2021

Better yet, add some ammonium chloride, wait a bit, then start to monitor. Let's see how live that rock really is.

And don't try to rush things, please.

WirelessMike · Feb 10, 2021

Welcome to the reef! Definitely test the levels listed above. If you used live rock and live sand the tests should come back without hiccups. If you don’t have a test kit you could always take a sample up to your LFS and they will typically test it for you. A lot of smart folks here to help guide you. Glad to have you in the hobby!