Only 4 days to go! (New tank)

[MikeyD]

Hello all,

 

Ok so i'm setting up my new tank at the weekend, at last! Just wanted to check something with you all. Is it ok to put my live rock and sand in the tank at the same time, from everything i've read it seems to be ok to do this. Also how long should i have my lights on for (8 hours i think?)

 

Thanks

 

Mike

[seabass]

I have only heard of one decent reason to add one before the other. If you put your LR in first, it will stay more stable because it’s resting on a solid surface; otherwise the sand can shift and topple your rockwork. However, if you are careful, you can still put sand in first.

 

While establishing the nitrogen cycle, most of us typically run a shortened photo cycle (no more than 4 or 5 hours) to help keep algae in check. After your cycle has been established, you can slowly increase your photo period to 10 hours.

 

I also believe in performing water changes during the cycle (removes ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, organics…), but many people will tell you not to change water until your cycle has been established. I think water changes (maybe 20% each week) helps to save some life on your LR, which I feel can ‘soften’ the cycle.