Have a 75 gallon mixed reef that has been up just under 2 years. I'm wanting to redo my aquascape. Some of the rock used will be what is already in the tank, but about half or more will be new dry rock (marco rock).
I'm curious about cycling the new rock. I know I can add it to the tank, but I don't want to risk a swing in parameters and risk losing coral.
Option 1.
I'm about to do a water change and thinking of using the water from the water change to help cycle the new rock quicker in a trashcan with some flow and heater if needed. My question is, since this water will already have the same parameters as my display, what should I be looking for in the cycle? An ammonia spike? Also would cleaning my filter in that ben help with seeding bacteria and should I add Dr.Tims or anything else?
Option 2.
Don't cycle the dry rock and place it directly in display tank and keep a check on parameter swings. Was thinking of getting ammonia alert badge and some ammonia remover. I have nopox if needed.
I'm curious about cycling the new rock. I know I can add it to the tank, but I don't want to risk a swing in parameters and risk losing coral.
Option 1.
I'm about to do a water change and thinking of using the water from the water change to help cycle the new rock quicker in a trashcan with some flow and heater if needed. My question is, since this water will already have the same parameters as my display, what should I be looking for in the cycle? An ammonia spike? Also would cleaning my filter in that ben help with seeding bacteria and should I add Dr.Tims or anything else?
Option 2.
Don't cycle the dry rock and place it directly in display tank and keep a check on parameter swings. Was thinking of getting ammonia alert badge and some ammonia remover. I have nopox if needed.