Cycling with Shrimp Question

[rainmkr07]

My LFS said dropping a raw shrimp (from the seafood counter at my grocery store) into the tank and letting it decompose would cycle my tank the fastest/easiest. Before I do it, is that true? When do I take the shrimp out, when the cycling is over, or will it completely decompose into nothing?

 

[jtrzerocool]

i would also like to know because i am about 5 days into a cycle right now.

any help is appriciated

 

[sk8r_dave]

Originally Posted by rainmkr07
My LFS said dropping a raw shrimp (from the seafood counter at my grocery store) into the tank and letting it decompose would cycle my tank the fastest/easiest. Before I do it, is that true? When do I take the shrimp out, when the cycling is over, or will it completely decompose into nothing?

I think this is a good method(from what i've read) althogh it isn't the fastest it probably is the easiest. I'm not entierly sure about tacking it out while(if)it's still decomposing. In mine I just let turn into nohting, although there's a brown layer on my sand. It would really help if others could help.

 

[jonthefishguy]

The brown layer is called DIATOM and is a sign that your tank is doing well. It will go away in time. I suggest using a (clean/new) plasticturkey baster to bow away any diatoms that build up on your rock or whatever. Use a powerhead to keep a strong current in your tank so that the diatoms dont sit there and accumulate.

 

[renogaw]

cycling with shrimp is a way of getting beneficial bacteria into the tank. If you have live rock it should have some bacteria in it already that will feed off the ammonia created by the decomposing shrimp. some people will baggy it in some netting material to prevent it from spreading throughout their tank when it decomposes, or just leave it in for your clean up crew.
on a side note, hold onto this LFS with your life. it is rare that one will suggest the shrimp because they want to sell damsels. it means they may actually care more about the hobby than making a buck.

 

[puffer32]

I always use a shrimp to cycle, takes alot less time. Between the bacteria on your LR and the decaying shrimp, i usually cycle in less then 2 weeks. I leave it in until my ammonia spikes, by then its swollen and starting to desinagrate, then i scoop it out with a net.