new tank......

[orangeptrinh]

hey everyone,
I just bought a new 20 gal high tank and am wondering what to put in first.........
can someone help me on the cycling process........????

 

[overanalyzer]

The first thing I would do - if I were you - would be to get some books from the library on setting up a tank. I have several freshwater tanks around but still have read several books on setting up a saltwater tank. I would recommend the Consientious Marine Aquarist (can't remember exact title) or Marine Aquariums BEginner to Breeder. There are also several shorter ones.
Then I'd figure out what you wantto populate your tank with then come back and post what you want to do and what you think you need for your tank. People who are on this board are highly knowledgeable and very helpful!

 

[jake22]

What are you using as a filter? What are using as substrate? DO you have any live rock?
If you want the shortest cycling time possible go to your local fish store and get 20 pounds of live rock and 20 pounds of live sand. Also buy the water they have that is already mixed. All my cycles have lasted a week or under with this type of set up. For filter i would go with an aquaclear 300 it is what i am running on my 20 gallon also.