Seeding a new tank

[kfoerster]

I am starting my 2nd reef tank and looking for advice on how to seed the new tank. My current tank parameters are good with the exception of nitrates, they are hovering between 40 and 60 ppm depending on my water change schedule. I do not want to reproduce this problem in my new tank but don't want to start it from scratch either. I have a 60 gallon cube now and starting a 30 gallon biocube. Should I use rock, sand, or water to seed the new tank? Or a combination of those? My current plan is to move over a bit of rock, put in new live sand and add a cup of sand from the existing tank if needed.

 

[Keith_0011]

I would think your plan is just fine. Not moving water means you are not moving as much of the nitrates. I would however give your rocks a good shake in another bucket to get off/out any loose debris. If you have any known pest problems, treating them while moving the rocks is the best time.