water b4 sand

[medievalfish]

How badly will things be messed up if I start adding water to my tank before the LS?
Also, what is the magic behind adding a cocktail shrimp (raw) to your tank to cycle?
TIA

 

[quads4_lif]

You will be ok if you are just setting up the tank I would recomend getting your water mixed and the temp and all levels where you want them then add the live sand and reg sand let it sit for a couple of days then start adding your Live rock and just keeping an eye on your levels

 

[quads4_lif]

As for the shrimp it just gives your nitrogen cycle a kick start. But if you are adding a few pieces of uncured live rock you wont need the shrimp

 

[payton 350]

adding the water will have no effect on the tank......you can add the rock and sand at the same time...the only problem i see with having the water in there first is the sand clouding everything up and not being able to see the rocks........but if you do put the water in first and let it sit...just bring the temp up to where you want it and the salinity to proper level.....
you can use a shrimp as a lot like to do....or "ghost feed" the tank and it will decompose the food and start the cycle...but if you are using uncured rock or ordered rock online just throw it in and it will take care of itself

 

[medievalfish]

I certainly appreciate the advice. I live 30 miles from WS and everything else. I have three 5g water jugs that I will shuttle 60 miles until I get mi tank full. LS will arrive wednesday, so I will add it and LR then as temps reach proper levels. P.S. I am assistant manager at a store that allows me to order fish supplies at 5% over cost. About 1/2 of the price at the LFS or LPS. I wish everyone was so lucky! :jumping: :cheer: