Cycling Questions....

[zamboni200000]

Hey all,

Today I started cycling a 10g nano IM nuvo fusion using dry rock.

Three quick questions...

1) Is it recommended to run filter media during cycling? I'm planning on using chemi pure blue. and perhaps a teaspoon or 2 of BRS high capacity GFO if needed. Or should I start these after cycling?

2) Is it recommended to do water changes during cycling? I was planning on about 30-40% change weekly. Or even 2-3 cups a day. Or do people usually start this after the cycle is complete?

 

3) Are you supposed to run a light during cycling. I was hoping not to as I'm waiting for the AI prime while this tank cycles.

Note: I did add a vial of biodigest to speed along the cycle. Also added in 10 marine pure bio balls into the back area.

Any advice much appreciated. Cheers and thank you.

[Azedenkae]

1.) No. Some people do it, I don't recommend it. The whole point of cycling is to establish enough microbes to break down whatever you have in the tank. Sure they can still grow with all sorts of media in it, but it will be slower. So why bother.

 

2.) No. Some people do it, I don't recommend it. The whole point of cycling is to establish enough microbes to break down whatever you have in the tank. If you do water changes you're just lowering levels 'artificially' and not gaging how quickly/much your microbes can handle. You'll just be prolonging your cycling time. So why bother.

 

3.) No. Some people do it, I don't recommend it. The whole point of cycling is to establish enough microbes to break down whatever you have in the tank. Lights will grow various photosynthetic organisms in your aquarium, but that won't have much to do with the microbes breaking down your ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. That will just use up electricity. So why bother.

 

I don't know what biodigest is.

 

I personally just puree some seafood mix, or whatever type of seafood one can find, then spread it all over the tank.

 

Ammonia spikes, feed all the microbes that come with the food in the first place, and whatever may already exist. Tada.

[zamboni200000]

Thanks i appreciate your input. Biodigest is a prodibio product. It's a vial of bacteria.

[cju84]

+1 for what Azedenkae said. Definitely dont' do a water change during your cycle, but still top off to maintain your salinity.

 

Top off with distilled or RODI water (NOT saltwater or tap).