New Tank cycle

[RBomm]

What do you guys think about cycling the tank with raw shrimp? Is this method any better or worse then other cycling methods?

 

[RBomm]

I don't plan on adding an RO unit for my new 175 gal. However, I am somewhat concerned because I live in Nassau county and I am not sure about the water quality for a SW tank. What are your thoughts?

 

[nanoreefer22]

I don't plan on adding an RO unit for my new 175 gal. However, I am somewhat concerned because I live in Nassau county and I am not sure about the water quality for a SW tank. What are your thoughts?

For a tank that big I'd definately without a doubt invest in an RO/Di, it's going to be one of the cheapest things you purchase for the tank. Doesn't make sense to short change yourself from the beginning and have problems down the road.

Check on Ebay you can get a 6-stage unit for under $140 and the units have a good reputation as many people on this board use it.

Instead of using a raw shrimp why not just throw some fish food in there.

 

[RBomm]

Thanks for the info. I will look into the RO unit. And I will try the fish food.

 

[loismustdie]

Definately use the RO/DI.
All I ever did to cycle my tanks was add live rock. Once the curing was done, I slowly added livestock.

 

[Chiefmcfuz]

RO/DI definately, Raw shrimp cycle ok.

 

[noodleman]

when i cycled my tank i just added the live rock, which had plently of dead stuff on it:tongue1:

 

[RBomm]

If livw rock alone works then I should be OK. I have 200 pounds of LR going in. Thanks for the info.

 

[tomzpc]

I would get the RO/DI before setting up the tank. You'll be starting off on the wrong foot by starting out with tap water. That could be a lot of nutrients in the system fueling undesirable algae for months to come. The live rock should be enough to cycle the tank. If the rock is already cured then you may never even have a cycle. It isn't necessary for the tank to cycle if the bacteria is already present.

 

[PalmTree]

RODI is a must especially with a 175. If you are adding 200 lbs of L/R that should take care of your cycle. Tap water in Nassau is full of alot of solids and metals. Some one tested Levitown water and got a TDS of 180!!! Def get an RO. It will save you alot of headache down the road.