Quick rock question

[BuckeyeGUY216]

Good evening everyone, quick question. I took about 7-10 pounds of rock out of my tank a few weeks ago. I put it in a clean plastic bag in inside a bucket. I now want to put it back Do I need to cycle this or do I?

 

[Brett S]

Good evening everyone, quick question. I took about 7-10 pounds of rock out of my tank a few weeks ago. I put it in a clean plastic bag in inside a bucket. I now want to put it back Do I need to cycle this or do I?

We need more details. Was the plastic bag open or closed? Was the rock sitting in water? Did it dry out?

 

[BuckeyeGUY216]

Wrap up dry in clean plastic bag inside a bucket, no water.

 

[Pistondog]

Put in a bucket of saltwater with pump and maybe heater for 24 hours, then good.

 

[Brett S]

Yeah, probably a lot of die off on the rocks then. How big is the tank and what percentage of the rocks did you take out? If it’s a small amount, like 5 or 10% then you can probably put it back in and the tank can handle the die off. If it’s a large amount then maybe put them in one at a time over the course of several weeks.

Either way test your ammonia frequently and be prepared with an ammonia neutralizer in case you start to see any ammonia.

 

[BuckeyeGUY216]

It’s a 70 gallon and literally two pieces about 8-10 max there is at least 60lbs in the tank.

 

[BuckeyeGUY216]

Thanks for the quick responses

 

[Brett S]

You’re probably OK putting them both in at once, but if you really want to be safe put them in one at a time a week or so apart. Rinsing then with salt water first is probably a good idea as well. And like I said, definitely keep a close eye on your ammonia for at least a week or so after you add the rocks. Be ready with some ammonia neutralizer in case you do see any sign of ammonia.