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Cycle

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by Sparticus, Jan 16, 2014.

  1. Jan 16, 2014 #1
    Sparticus

    Sparticus Inactive User

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    This may not be a popular question to some, but I'm going to ask anyway.


    Is it ok to use biospira or another mixture to skip the cycle?
     
  2. Jan 16, 2014 #2
    Nik Windsor Heights

    Nik Experienced Reefkeeper

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    I have used it to "help" it cycle faster.
     
  3. Jan 16, 2014 #3
    blackx-runner Cedar Rapids, IA

    blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

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    I have never used it, but I would be very cautious assuming that you can skip the cycle by using it. I would do like Nick said and use it to help the cycle work a little faster. Patience with a reef tank is key. Especially if this is your first tank.
     
  4. Jan 16, 2014 #4
    Sparticus

    Sparticus Inactive User

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    Really, Our LFS told me I could add it and start adding fish pretty quick.


    I havent had a tank this size, Only a nano, so this is all new to me. How long does a cycle last with a tank thats 125gl.
     
  5. Jan 16, 2014 #5
    Chlora Stronghurst, IL

    Chlora Board of Directors Leadership Team GIRS Member

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    my tank cycled on the 4th day. I added live sand, LR that was in my LFS tank for a long time, and one and only nitrfying bacteria. I had a damsel in on the 6th day. and a coral and 2 clowns a week after that. I have heard of tanks taking longer to cycle doing the same thing so I really think it is hit and miss. but I am a totale newbie to saltwater but that is how it went with mine. patience is the key word.
     
  6. Jan 16, 2014 #6
    Kpotter2 North liberty, IA

    Kpotter2 Expert Reefkeeper

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    Live rock that has been in a tank is one of the fasted ways to cycle a tank. You can add fish with in 3 days, but I would wait 5. Live rock works wonders in the cycle speed.
    Corals you should wait for a few months at least. The tank being new is going to still go thru a cycle with algae and stuff. Adding corals will only brake your heart, but if you do as most of us do. Add some hardy coral varieties that you might like.

    KP
     
  7. Jan 16, 2014 #7
    Sponge Marshalltown, IA

    Sponge Expert Reefkeeper Vendor

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    Dr. Tim's One and Only bacteria is great! Go to his website and read :0) As KP, Nic and blackx-runner said... Remember, LFS are in business to make money. Many do not always give the best guidance...not saying that yours is or isn't, but be mindful... Shrooms and a hearty softy might make it through the cycle... It's always best to research first before buying and/or jumping in :0)
     
  8. Jan 17, 2014 #8
    Sparticus

    Sparticus Inactive User

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    Thanks for the advice. I am using Marco Dry Rock, If I wanted to add some live rock , where would you recommend getting some to help with the cycle? If I was to get live rock, do I need to cure it or just drop it right in?
     
  9. Jan 17, 2014 #9
    blackx-runner Cedar Rapids, IA

    blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

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    Marco rocks won't contain any of the beneficial bacteria and goodies needed for the nitrogen cycle. So it would be best to go through a good long cycle. Get the bacteria established so when you add fish you won't run into issues with an ammonia spike.

    If you get some live rock if its good quality, live rock that'c coming strait out of water and right back into your tank there is no need to cure it. Some members may be able to help you out with a few pieces here and there for a good price. That will definitely speed things along. But still remember patience is key to long term success.
     
  10. Jan 17, 2014 #10
    Sparticus

    Sparticus Inactive User

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    Will do, Thanks for the tips, greatly appreciated. Took me 6 weeks to cycle my nano as I did it the ole fashioned way of sticking a piece of shrimp down in the sand and just let it go.


    Ill get some of the Dr. Tims and some live rock. Might have to make a trip to Coral Haven or North Liberty.



     

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