new tank need some help

[preella]

I had 2-10 gallon tanks and now I purchased a 75 gallon tank a month ago. I want to know how to properly set it up. I have never used sand or live rock. I have been told that these both would benefit me greatly. I have some fish already but I was told that I need to cure rock before I put it in the tank? How do I do that. I have had really bad luck lately... I woke up and 3 fish were at the bottom of the tank. I never want to have that horrible thing happen again. I thought that I knew something about saltwater fish but I am finding out that I don't. I use R.O. water and use stress coat and have the salinity correct. I do understand about the cycling process but that is about the extent of my knowledge. How long does it take to properly cycle this 72 gallon tank. I have 1 damsel, 2 clown and a blue tang. I also have a tiger shrimp and 4 snails. I have no live rock. I have about 3 inches of crushed rock on the bottom. If anyone could give me a few hints of what they did for success I would appreciate it tremendously.
PreElla :help:

 

[viet-tin]

LIve sand would be good. It will cause nitrate problems later. Live rock will benefit you as well. When your curing it, just put it in a container with saltwater and let it sit inside for a week or so. When your water levels are stable then you can add them to your display tank. Be sure to take off any unwanted pest from the rock before adding, pest such as aiptasia, majono, preditory crabs, mantis shrimp etc...Or if your cycling your tank you can add the sand and rocks at the same time and have it cycle all together. Let your tank cycle for atleast a month or until all levels are tolerable. NOw is this going to be a reef set up or fish only with live rock?

 

[preella]

What do I have to do to the sand before I add it to the tank and should I just add a little so the nitrate doesn't go high? Do you think that it is a good idea to not add the sand? Should I remove some of the sand and replace it when I do water changes? Will this keep the nitrate level low? Thank you so much for your help, I really appreciate it.

 

[darknes]

PreElla, Welcome to the Boards!!
First off, In My Opinion, I would suggest taking your fish back to the store and starting over. I would recommend buying some test kits for ammonia, nitrates, nitrites, and pH, and re-cycle the tank...it sounds as if it never finished cycling before you added your fish. This way, you can add the live rock right away without curing it, and letting the rock jump start your cycle.
Otherwise, as a second path, I would recommend buying a test kit to make sure all levels are OK for your fish. I would still buy some live rock for the tank, but to cure them before you add them so that your levels don't spike.
Just do some research, and search the boards for information and I'm sure you'll do fine.
Good luck.