time table to start carbon dosing

[rayn]

When starting up a new tank, when would be a smart time to start carbon dosing? I will specifically be using vodka for my source. I expect to go through the cycle with ammonia and nitrites. Then with nitrates do a large water change. Is it safe to start right after that?

 

[ReeferRookie]

Start it right. Away. Who cares

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Depends on how you cycled, IMO.

If you cycle dry rock with ammonia, I'd start as soon as I started to add foods for fish so there is sufficient phosphate around (in addition to the nitrate) for bacteria to consume.

If you cycle by curing live rock, then I'd start when the cycle ends.

 

[Reefing Madness]

I agree, I'd not start dosing until the cycle is over, then the nitrates will be stable. You will need them to help cycle out the Nitrites at first.