reef tank

[reefwatcher]

The first few steps of starting a reef aquarium. And just wondering if live rock or live sand is the best way to go.

 

[rajkovich207]

IMHO live sand is a waste, and many will agree with me, I've had aweful luck with pests on live rock, so this time around I went dry and cycled from a bottle, I am not all the way through the cycle, but after all 3 different methods, so far this is my favorite. We will see with time how the tank holds up though. Hth

 

[reefwatcher]

Thanks a lot i need all the help i can get.Im wanting the most natural look i can get.

 

[zemuss]

cycled from bottle? What does that mean?

I agree my next tank will be dry sand and dead rock. Nothing Live I am done with pest.

 

[rajkovich207]

I used Dr Tim's one and only. Some mysis and brine shrimp to kick things off then will be using ammonium chloride to finish it off. Ie from a bottle lol

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Welcome to R2R!

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[reefwatcher]

thanks alot R2R

 

[AsphaltPays]

IMHO live sand is a waste, and many will agree with me, I've had aweful luck with pests on live rock, so this time around I went dry and cycled from a bottle, I am not all the way through the cycle, but after all 3 different methods, so far this is my favorite. We will see with time how the tank holds up though. Hth

+1 and Welcome to R2R

 

[reefwatcher]

What kind of leds should i use for me reef tank when i get it started or a good web site to order from.

 

[zemuss]

IMO let the system cycle. WHy would you want to introduce ammonium chloride to the tank to finish the cycle? Introducing the shrimp should be enough to start the cycle. Are you wanting to speed the process up?

 

[zemuss]

reefwatcher,

are you wanting to build the LED fixture yourself or something premade? Also what is your price range?

 

[reefwatcher]

What does shrimp have to do with the cycle.

 

[ChoxRox]

The live rock issue really has to do with your budget and preference. I went with live rock because I budgeted for it, and because I wanted a quick cycle. As it turned out, I ended up having NO cycle. BUT it comes with hitchikers, so watch out.

 

[reefwatcher]

reefwatcher,

are you wanting to build the LED fixture yourself or something premade? Also what is your price range?

premade i guess $200 or $500 will be ok

 

[reefwatcher]

IMO let the system cycle. WHy would you want to introduce ammonium chloride to the tank to finish the cycle? Introducing the shrimp should be enough to start the cycle. Are you wanting to speed the process up?

No i want to take my time and let the cycle do it's work and cure on it's own.

 

[zemuss]

Okay I read it wrong.. Yes let it cycle on its own.

 

[zemuss]

Check out Reef Breeders LED Fixtures which sells LED fixtures.

 

[reefwatcher]

Check out Reef Breeders LED Fixtures which sells LED fixtures.

Ok i will go check it out you have been a big help.

 

[reefwatcher]

Ok what all do i need besides the 55gl tank leds and the live rock please help like sump pumps how to make a current's etc....

 

[zemuss]

Whats your budget on Pumps. I like Ehiem for return pump. Ecotech or Tunze (Nano Stream 6095) for water flow with in the tank.

Is the 55 Gal drilled and can it be?

Sump go grab a 30 gallon breeder from Petco when they are on sale.

You can start cycling your rock by purchasing a rubbermaid container, fill it with salt water and add the rock, a small pump for circulation. By the time your ready your rock with have grown the beneficial bacteria and when you add it to the tank you would have a small cycle. (In theory)