cycling

hxcpnk

hxcpnk

Member
Im really confused about cycling, I am going to be doing a FOWLR tank.....so should I cycle with LR? or what? I was reading something earlier that acted like if I cycle with LR that it has to be bare bottom? I want to use live sand. Also if i cure with LR do I go ahead and just add all the live rock im going to be using for my tank then or what? Im really lost on this subject, Ive been reading and reading....the more i read the more confused I get. If anyone could help me I would really appreciate it, Im just really confused....if someone could just try and simplify and break down the things I need to have done to start cycling I would really appreciate it....I keep reading but it just seems to confuse me more and more cause there are no straight answers in the book im reading and online.......thanks to anyone that can give me any help :help:
 
karajay

karajay

Active Member
You certainly can use all of your sand and LR right from the beginning to cycle your tank. If your LR is uncured, that should take care of starting the cycle for you.
 
hxcpnk

hxcpnk

Member
So basically I should just add my LS, LR, and water and that will do the cyclying? My tank is going to be 75 gallons, so adding all of my LR (probably 70 lbs) will be fine? I cant use cured LR though can I? And another question, this is about under gravel filtration.....I want to use sand so what type of filtration should I use?......It seems like an under gravel filtration system probably wouldnt be the best idea, is it a must or do most people even use them? thanks :happy:
 
karajay

karajay

Active Member

Originally posted by hxcpnk
It seems like an under gravel filtration system probably wouldnt be the best idea, is it a must or do most people even use them?
Under-gravel systems are definately NOT the way to go.
A good sand bed, combined with a good amount of LR will provide alot of your biological filtration.
There are numerous ways to provide filtration. Equipment is not really my field of expertise, but I would look into a external wet/dry type.
Using cured rock is not only quite alot more expensive, but not really the best way to start a new tank. The die-off you get from using uncured rock is what will provide the ammonia you need to start the cycle process.
 
hxcpnk

hxcpnk

Member
Thanks, definetly cleared things up for me, I really appreciate it.....so putting like 70 lbs in is ok? I know im probably getting annoying with the questions
 
karajay

karajay

Active Member
General rule of thumb is 1 - 1.5 lbs per gallon. Kinda depends on the rock density and the desired appearance. I'd say 70 lbs is about right, but a little more wouldn't hurt.
:)
 
hxcpnk

hxcpnk

Member
Ok cool, thanks for clearing that up for me....no more questions, I promise.....as of now :happy:
 
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