New vs aged live rock?

[Tangina20]

I have a 40 gallon breeder and looking to upgrade to a 100 gallon tank. My 40 has about 50 lb of live rock that is 3 years old. I would really like to start over with the new tank from all dry rock how much better is 3 year old rock vs newly cycled rock and why? I can try to use some pieces of old rock if I have to!

 

[Vinman]

I have a 40 gallon breeder and looking to upgrade to a 100 gallon tank. My 40 has about 50 lb of live rock that is 3 years old. I would really like to start over with the new tank from all dry rock how much better is 3 year old rock vs newly cycled rock and why? I can try to use some pieces of old rock if I have to!

Do you have pests or algae you want to avoid

 

[Tangina20]

Do you have pests or algae you want to avoid

No my old rock is pretty clean I guess my question is mostly wondering if aged rock breaks down nutrients Better than new rock

 

[Vinman]

If you have no pests or unwanted algae I would say definitely reuse your rock aged rock is way better than new rock just opinion

 

[brandon429]

agreed. guaranteed new algae troubles and challenges =all new rock.

 

[sfin52]

Aged rock has all kinds of bacteria that would break down nitrates and ammonia. It's aged so it will stabilize the tank. I would keep it.

 

[Nasir]

Use your rock. You can add to but your rock is use to your tanks bio load and perimeters.

 

[Rilo]

Old pest free rock is the best way to go. Aging new rock is a pain. Your new rock will go through cycles of pest algae. In the end you'll end up with aged pest free rock. But if you already have aged pest free rock then there's no reason to start over.

 

[Bouncingsoul39]

Established, fully cycled live rock with coralline algae on it is like a priceless commodity in our hobby. It makes a world of difference. Back in my day (the late 90s early 00s it was all we used. The only people who didn't use real live rock back then were heretics! Heretics I say!