question on CUC

[mp32]

Ok, I asked this in the newbie section and got one response (again thanks prime311) I need some more info on CUC and did not hear from anyone so I figured I would move my question here, so here we go... I was going to cycle my tank then add some clowns, then later after the it is more established I would add my CUC. prime311 said to waite on the clowns add the cuc first, so that is fine can do this, I was concerned that there would not be enough algae or benificial anything to keep them alive. I also was looking at the reef packages on this site, I was looking at the 150 or 100+ packages, I have a 180, what I would like to know is should I get a package from here or should I build my own CUC. I am not sure if the package they send from here is enough or to big or the wrong kind of CUC for a new tank. Thanks for the info....Oh and if I should build my own how many and what kind is good for a newly established 180? again Thanks!

 

[gmann1139]

Assuming you have LR, the order would be LR, cycle, CUC, fish.

 

[mp32]

No problem, but I do need to know what is best to add should I go with the 150 package, or the 100+, or is it better to build my own I do like the packages because they have a big variety of inverts, but I do not want to add something if it is not necessary for a new tank or will be a hassle to deal with. If it is better to build my own what, and how many should I use for a 180? I do need to know so I can start planning my expenses. Thanks in advance.

 

[sepulatian]

You can get a reef package, but don't get a large one. Your tank is fairly new right? Go for the 30-90 package, or one of the other smaller ones. You can build up your CUC as your tank matures.

 

[mp32]

Thanks a bunch, that was my biggest concern I did not want to put all of those guys in there and see them starve to death if it is too early.

 

[mp32]

Ok which would be best to get I am posting this because of size difference and on has brittle stars....
here is the first
Scarlet Hermit Crab: 10
Blueleg Hermit Crab: 10
Nasssarius Snail: 10
Brittle Starfish: 2
Coral Banded Shrimp: 1
Emerald Crab: 3
Turbo/Astrea Snail: 20
Cleaner Clam: 2
and here is the second...
Scarlet Hermit Crab: 20
Blueleg Hermit Crab: 20
Nasssarius Snail: 10
Emerald Crab: 5
Coral Banded Shrimp: 1
Sally Lightfoot: 1
Turbo/Astrea Snail: 20
Cleaner Clam: 2

 

[sepulatian]

IMO this one is better:
Scarlet Hermit Crab: 10
Blueleg Hermit Crab: 10
Nasssarius Snail: 10
Brittle Starfish: 2
Coral Banded Shrimp: 1
Emerald Crab: 3
Turbo/Astrea Snail: 20
Cleaner Clam: 2
I prefer stars over extra hermits any day. Be sure that your SG is 1.026

 

[mp32]

thanks!