Switching tanks

[Wolf89]

I'm upgrading my tank from a 20 long to a 90. I have about 20 lbs of live rock and the same amount of sand. Since this stuff is already live, can I add that stuff my 90 with 40-50 lbs of dry rock and the same amount of dry sand to speed up the cycle and add my fish and inverts that are in the 20 immediately?
If I cant add immediately, how long should I wait? I do not think leaving the fish without the rock for long is a good idea, especially the mandarin though he eats frozen. Thoughts? Much appreciated

 

[steelwrap]

Your rock has enough bacteria to handle your present bioload so yes move fish right away. Just add any more fish slowly so your bacteria has a chance to multiply

 

[Wolf89]

Your rock has enough bacteria to handle your present bioload so yes move fish right away. Just add any more fish slowly so your bacteria has a chance to multiply

Great!! That makes things 10x better. That makes sense too ( for once I actually get it ). Thanks!!

 

[jtl]

Some recommend discarding the old sand and starting with fresh.

 

[MaiReef]

Is your dry rock cured? If not, you may have problems. Rinse the new sand with ro/di as well.

 

[Wolf89]

Is your dry rock cured

yes I think so

 

[MaiReef]

You can always be sure by putting it in a bucket of RO/DI with a powerhead and then test for Ammonia, Nitrates and Phosphates.
Plus it gets the debris out.

 

[Wolf89]

You can always be sure by putting it in a bucket of RO/DI with a powerhead and then test for Ammonia, Nitrates and Phosphates.
Plus it gets the debris out.

what will it test if it is cycled or not?

 

[MaiReef]

If it is RO/DI and you let it run for a few days to a week it will test if the rock is cured. If so, none of those three should show readings.