New and not sure what to do next

[brylee]

I have a 65 gal. tank. I have approximately 10-15 lbs of live rock although I am not sure if it's live. I set the tank up a week ago. I got my saline level under control and then added live gravel and 2 yellow tail damsels. I am starting to see some dark green patches on the live rock as well as a few patches of green mossy areas on the rock. I will assume that this is algae. Is this bad or to be expected? I'm really into this and want to add some bottom feeders, but not sure if I should yet. I was told that by adding the live rock and crushed coral, the cycle time would be almost nil. Is this true, and if it is what can I do next other than wait. I want coral in the tank but was told to wait for several weeks to make sure the damsels live. I'm thinking that I was told to do this so that I can be sure that the tank stays within parameters As stated earleir, I'm not sure what to do, but very eager to learn. Thanks!

 

[jake22]

With the amount of live rock you put in your tank i dont think it will have much effect. The least amount of rock you want to have for a 65 gallon tank is at least 55 pounds but the best would be 65 or more. If you want the fastest cycle the best thing to do is 1 pound of live rock per gallon, a live sand bed and salt water from your local fish store. To take care of the algae since you are using crushed coral you will need to use hermits.

 

[brylee]

My tank has been going for about a week now, and I have yet to turn the lights off. Is lighting a concern yet, is it contributing to the algae growth at this point or is it still early. how long should i leave the lights on if it is of concern thanks

 

[donkeykong]

yes if you leave the lights on 24/7 it will contribute to algea growth. Also the fish need to sleep and is hard for them when the lights are on. I have a timer set for noon to midnight. With fish only you realy dont need a specific time for them to be on or off just give the fish time to sleep. But when you do get coral 10-12 hours of light is what is suggested if i remember correctly. It is best with coral to keep the lights on and off the same every day, that includes same length of time and same time off day.
Any addition or correction to my comments...