cycling ?

[hammerhed7]

I am currently ready to cycle my 220 in wall for an aggressive FO, my question is regarding cycling without adding fish. I plan to cycle by adding a few shrimp to my sump, but I am unsure as to how many to add, and whether or not to run my skimmer during the cycle. I have cycled with fish before, and prefer to avoid that, and all of my LR is going to start my new reef. any input is appreciated.

 

[shark bait]

Turn the skimer off untill the cycle ends, just dump a hand full in I used this live stuff that my LFS kept in the fridge and it took 2 weeks, but I waited 2 months to keep the ph and temp in check. when your cycle is done wait a bit to make sure it is truly finished. If you plan on live rock or sand now is the time to put it in.

 

[psusocr1]

i ran my skimmer while i added two jumbo shrimp right to my tank.. did the job well!

 

[shark bait]

Originally Posted by psusocr1
i ran my skimmer while i added two jumbo shrimp right to my tank.. did the job well!
thats cool, you can do what ever the skimer just takes out some of the good stuff needed to make the nano bacteria

 

[hammerhed7]

Originally Posted by psusocr1
i ran my skimmer while i added two jumbo shrimp right to my tank.. did the job well!
great, thanks for the help. I have a package of frozen shrimp, or should I get fresh? I was concerned about any preservatives that might be used.

 

[psusocr1]

i use fresh shrimp all the time.. As you statesd the forzen packages stuff i just dont turst as it may contain things unatural for the fish to consume or to put in your water system
as shark bait siad you cana lso just put the shrimp int he tank for a few days let it decqay a bit , dont run your skimmer for the first three to four days then fire it up!

 

[hammerhed7]

fresh it is. thanks for the help guys, much appreciated.