Newbie w/ 12G NanoCube

[hudaisy]

Hi all. Once again, I have a newbie question. What is a protein skimmer, do I already have one and if not, do I need to get one. I have a 12G Nanocube. I am going today to buy test kits and shrimp (dead--to start cycling). I am also thinking that I should get the live rock today, too, just to speed up the cycling. Any other suggestions?

 

[jacksdad]

Protein skimmers are not necessary for a nanocube. Although I am sure some will disagree. To the best of my knowledge a protein skimmer removes "junk" from the water column. Once your tank has been up for a while you might notice debris float in the water, not on the surface, but in the water. I would get your LR added as soon as possible, make sure it's cured. It will help the cycle along. Hope this helps!
Bob

 

[hudaisy]

Just bought LR today. Didn't get much, only about 1.5lbs. I know this isn't as much as some would like, but I am running low on funds.
On another note: My water is still cloudy. The LFS says this could be from the salt. I have tested (using hydrometer) and it is within the .022 range. Should it still be cloudy? What can I do? Also, the LFS said I should get a hermit crab or two and put them in my tank TODAY to help the cycle along. I thought I had to wait weeks before I could anything. What's the deal there?

 

[jacksdad]

How long has the water been in the tank? Do you have a sand bed? The cloudy water may just be the sand storm that was created when you added water. What do you have in the filter compartments? Last question, are you using RO water?
Wait on the hermits. Just LR for now. Believe me I know how tight the budget can get at times. Just make sure you have the majority of the rock in as soon as possible. If you add too much at once after the cycle you can cause a spike and harm critters! Just keep an eye on the levels when the nitrates hit zero (probably 3 to 4 weeks) add your clean up crew. Keep on eye on them for a while and then, if everything is okee dokee add a fish. Then keep an eye on him, etc., etc.
Happy cubing!
Bob

 

[jacksdad]

Just looked over a few of your previous threads. First of all, take everything you LFS says with a grain of salt. They are, more times than not looking to make a sale more than helping you out. Second, be patient. It takes time to setup a reef tank. My 24 has been going since Jan. and I am not even close to where I want to be. This is the hardest time because your excited and want to get things going. It is however the most important time of you tank and cannot be rushed. Read as much here as you can and I promise you will know more than the LFS in no time.
Bob

 

[hudaisy]

Bob,
I am not using R/O water. I will as soon as I do a water change. I am using dechlorinated tap water (I know, I know...it's bad.) The salinity was waaaay high, and as I put new water in, it cleared right up. I already have a sand bed; I've used LS and now have LR, but am not planning on adding more LR (I have 1.5lbs).