Quick Question before the cycle

[speedracered]

I am about to start my 55 gallon tank cycle. I have 30 LBs of Base rock, can I use 20Lbs of LR for the cycle? I also have a 20Lb bag of pure Aragonite, and a 20LB bag of LS. Should I get another bag of LS or Aragonite?
LR and LS will be my filteration, and I will be running 2 AquaClear 404 about 275 GPH. Will I be fine w/out a Skimmer for now?
Any help appreciated.

 

[col]

When using LR to cycle the tank you may never actually see the cycle happening, but I'm sure it will be.
50lbs of LR in 55g tank should handle any ammonia ok. If you want to be sure and actaully "see" ammonia and nitrite spikes than start the cycle with a dead shrimp etc.
Can't help you on the sand question, sorry.
Skimmer - depends what you want to keep. If it is fish only then I would say a skimmer is not essential. If you are keeping corals then it is a must (My opinions, others may/will say different).
Whilst your tank is cycling and maturing there is probably no need for a skimmer.

 

[speedracered]

anyone else?