Question about adding BRS Reefsaver to sump

[Rython]

Quick question:

I want to add some reefsaver rubble to my sump to sit under my chaeto in the refugium section. The rock i'm adding will probably be 1/4 of what is in the display. Do I need to cure it first, or add it slowly over time? Tank is 9 months old.

Thanks,
Chance

 

[Old Glory]

Reef saver is the least porous of their rock. Can you get some Fiji or pukani rubble? The more porous the better.

BRS recommends curing all rock before being used in an established system.

 

[Rython]

Using what I have. I'm not adding it because i need more surface area for bacteria. I just want structure for pods to live in and rock for frags, etc.

 

[Old Glory]

oh ok then I would probably cure it for a few weeks in a bucket to avoid any potential spikes. However that stuff is pretty clean.

 

[ksfulk]

Because you have it in a lit area, it is likely that it will grow algae, as the rock will have some organic material on it. Ive added rubble and large pieces of rock to my DT without much issue - but Im ok with it looking grungy for a while, as it ages. Depending on the size of your tank, the stability of the system and the nutrient export system thats establish, you might be fine. Likely the chaeto is going to slurp up any leeched phosphate that comes from the rock.

 

[Rython]

Ok thanks to both of you for the advice. Since you both think there could still be some leached organics, particularly phosphate, i'm going to go ahead and cure the rock before I put in in there. I should know by now the answer is always - do it the slow but safer way.