I have dolomite substrate

[bizzygenius]

I just set up my 29 gallon sw tank. I bought Ultra Reef Dolomite substrate at the time cause I couldn't get the live sand I wanted. I'm adding about 5-10 lbs of live sand later. My question is will the tank cycle with just the dolomite? The water has started turning a little cloudy. Is it cycling? I didn't think it should be, I haven't finished adding materials to it.
Also what does dolomite subtrate good for? My lfs guy wasn't too informative when I bought it other than telling me using it would be fine. I'm doing a fo tank. If it doesn't benefit what I'm using it for, I can take it out, not a problem.

 

[bizzygenius]

Does anyone have ANY suggetions?????????? Please help

 

[dbrown9]

from what I know the dolomite will collect detritus and it turns to nitrate. I have Crushed Coral in my new tank and I am switching to live sand this week. It should cycle with the dolomite but I would go with the live sand to start, you'll be glad you did in the long run. plus it will act as a bio filter for you. Hope that is a little help to ya.

 

[scopus tang]

Dolomite is a naturally occuring rock substance that will break down very, very slowly (years) over time and help keep the pH in your saltwater aquarium where you want it. I haven't hear much about it being used lately, but it used to be one of two standards for saltwater aquariums (the other was crushed coral). Both essentially provide the same function, and can be fine with proper maintaince in a fish only system. I personally wouldn't use either as the only substrate material in a reef. As dbrown9 stated, if you go with the live sand your going to be a lot happier in the long run. And yes, your tank will cycle with only dolomite, especially if you didn't prerinse the rock well prior to setting up your tank (which is kind of what it sounds like, because of the cloudyness of the water). If the coudyness is caused by fine particles they will settle out over time. Hope that helps.

 

[bizzygenius]

Yes both answers have helped me trememdously, thank you.

I'm gonna go and buy the live sand. When I go to remove the dolomite, should I take the water out first and save it to avoid less mess and cloudiness, or should I just start all over.

 

[scopus tang]

Personally, I don't think it matters. Based on what you said your tank hasn't really been set up long enough for it to make much difference.

I would do whichever is easier.