Live sand question

[brithor]

My 46 gallon bow has been running now for about 3 months and I currently have about 30 pounds LS and 50 pounds of LR. It is currently a FOWLR tank but my plan is to eventually make it a mixed reef. Anyways, I would like to add another 20 pounds or so of live sand to increase the depth of my sand bed and I also have plans to add another 25 pounds of live rock. Anyone have any suggestions on how best to add the sand to an already established tank with inhabitants (I also have a clean up crew consisting of an emerald crab, cleaner shrimp, various hermit crabs and snails) or if doing so will possibly trigger a cycle?
Wasn't sure if I needed to move all the current inhabitants to a temporary holding bucket or QT or if anyone has added more sand in some manner without causing a giant sand storm? Thanks

 

[nycbob]

if u buy live sand in a bag, it's not going to cause a cycle. the best way to out ls through a 1-inch tube, that way it doesnt cause a big mess inside the tank.

 

[sepulatian]

Originally Posted by nycbob
http:///forum/post/2450725
if u buy live sand in a bag, it's not going to cause a cycle. the best way to out ls through a 1-inch tube, that way it doesnt cause a big mess inside the tank.
I agree. Monitor your water levels though just to be sure. Cure the new rock in a bucket with a power head and a heater. Welcome to the boards

 

[brithor]

Originally Posted by sepulatian
http:///forum/post/2450759
I agree. Monitor your water levels though just to be sure. Cure the new rock in a bucket with a power head and a heater. Welcome to the boards

Thanks, yeah I planned on buying cured live rock but will still give it some time in the bucket just to be safe and to check for any bad hitchhikers.
Funneling through 1 inch tubing makes sense so I will try that. This is my first tank and its ridiculous how addicting and expensive this hobby can become. Already dreaming about upgrading but I've got my hands full as it is so I will try to take my time....