Upgrading to 30 gal from 5 gal...help please!

[misty927]

Hey guys...well, I've finally decided to upgrade from my 5 gal nano to a 30 gal high. Currently I have about 5-8lbs live rock, a few inverts, and some out of control Xenia...haha. Question is...what is the best way to make the move. I was planning on doing a water change and putting some of the water from the 5 gal in to the 30 to get the process going. Also planning on adding about 30 lbs live rock and more live sand. If I just added saltwater to this combination, do you think I would experience much of a cycle? Any other suggestions you might have are also appreciated...thanks.

 

[wax32]

The added live rock will cause a cycle (unless it is mature, well cured rock you are taking from an established tank, like from a friend). You water has nothing to do with it. You can make all new water as far as that goes. I'd set the 30 up with the new rock and sand and let it cycle like normal, then bring over the other stuff once it has cycled.

 

[misty927]

Well, intially, I was going to buy cured rock from an LFS, but they were charging out the nose. So, I ended up ordering online and will, as you said, have to wait the cycle out as usual. Slow and steady wins the race as they say...oh well...

 

[wax32]

Originally Posted by misty927
Slow and steady wins the race as they say...
That's the number one rule in this hobby! You will do fine.

 

[bluelagoon]

hey misty i was trying to find a pic of ur 5 gal, but i couldn't! i was wondering if u could post one, cuz i'd LOVE to see it!