New Tank

[booba]

I just started my new tank it is a 40 gal corner tank with ls and base rock no live rock yet. Filter is fluval 204. I just put a shrimp in to start it . How long will it take . Do i ever get it out or just leave it in there. Can I put live rock in it with the shrimp. I only put 1 or should i put more in.. ..

 

[sohalwutang499]

keep the shrimp in there until you have a good amount of ammonia. Test for ammonia for about two weeks, then start testing for nitrites. The whole cycle can take from 2 weeks(if you seed the tank with cured live rock) to 2 months if you dont seed it with anything.

 

[leopard_babe]

You can cycle a tank with the live rock in it. You can have the shrimp and live rock inthe tank at the same time. I left the shrimp inmy tank for abot 3 days, until my ammonia spiked. Then I took it out. If I were you I would put the live rock in the tank while it is cycling.
Sarah

 

[harlequinnut]

The shrimp can come out after the ammonia has spiked.

 

[harlequinnut]

babe, you beat me to it by seconds.

 

[booba]

Thanks guys I will put the lr in it in a couple of days..

 

[crimson156]

you can use the tropical fish, mollies or platies
they're 3-4 bucks a pair and they can live in salt water, u have to slowly bring the salt content of their water up to that of your tank cause they are usually held in fresh water at the pet store
they're a cheap alternative to cycle your tank