more on cycling

[hookedonreefs]

If I have a tank with water & sand in it, but no LR or LS....
And I know I'll be getting LR in about two weeks or so....
Can I put a shrimp or two in to start cycling, then put the LR in whenever I get it, even if it's in the middle of the cycle? (For argument's sake lets say it's cured LR.)
Then I'll have part of my cycle done rather than wait for an LR purchase, then put the shrimp in. Sound good, or am I missing something? <besides patience>

 

[pigeoncreek1]

I would toss a shrimp or 2 in.
When I set my tank up, LS and cured LR were used, It did not have enough die off to start the cycle and I ended up adding the shrimp 10 days later. The addition of the LR will either cause another mini cycle, or if you get some good cured stuff(l got mine from this site) it will speed your cycle along by introducing beneficial bacteria into the system
Good Luck and try to be patient! (I know it's hard )

 

[col]

Sounds ok to me.
If the bacteria is well etablished by the time you add the LR you may see an ammonia rise but it will be dealt with quickly.