Do I need to cycle this rock?

[rackmsukr]

I recently obtained a 5 gallon bucket full of dry rock that was once live rock used in a saltwater tank. There are some nice pieces which look like they will be nice once they become "live" again. What do I need to do to this rock before I put it in my DT (150 gal FOWLR). Does It need to be cycled in a seperate container? Do I need to have any light on it? Thanks

 

[spanko]

Cycle in a seperate container with a power head, heater and HOB filter and or skimmer. Cycle like you would a regular tank watching ammonia cycle. When it is done rinse the rock off in clean saltwater then add to the DT. No lighting necessary. This is called cooking the rock.

 

[aztec reef]

Just put it in tank.
The rock was dry hence "dead"=base rock.

 

[socal57che]

I'd wash/scrub it first to get the dead flaky stuff off.