Originally Posted by Jtickle
I just was given a great opportunity to receive a 40 gal. corner tank with wet/dry, uv, 60lbs of rock, lighting w/moon for $75 bucks WOW! I currently have a 55 gal. w/LR. I have had pretty good luck with my tank. I have had it for about a year now. I have Koran Angel, Tomato Clown, 3 Damsels, 2 goby's, arrow crab, and cleaner shrimp. (alot I know but doing good). I am looking to do a reef or Aggresive tank with this new setup. I will swap componets to make my current tank better. My question is what type of gravel should I use. I currently have crushed coral in my 55. I have had problems with worms and have been told it was not a smart move. Should I get live sand I don't know much about it if someone could please advise. Also are agressive fish reef safe (triggers,puffers???). Also if I use my water when I do a water change and put a damsel or two in the tank how long will it take to cycle?
If you use cured live rock, and water from your system your curing time will be days, not weeks. Just be sure the rock was cured. Do not cycle with damsels...no matter how nasty a fish they are. This is not a good practice, very mean. As far as the sand. Go with small grain aragonite sand and live sand on top if you want, but not necessary if you use cured live rock. All sand will become alive with time. Do 1 inch or 3 inches, which ever you prefer. Most aggressive fish are not reef safe....eat ornamental shrimp, snails and or coral. If it can fit in their mouth, consider it gone. When you say you have worms in your tank, these are probably bristle worms and unfortunately they are normal in a seasoned tank. They are great for cleaning up any uneaten food, but if they get a lot of food they multiply like rabbits. In crushed coral they have many places to find food. I hope I have answered all your questions? Good luck with the new tank, sounds nice.
