Cycling

I think the shrimp would be the easier way to go. Nothing to keep up with, just put it in and let it go.

 

..oh, I just say that because so much can happen in that amount of time with everything perfect..add a couple "issues"....it could be a train wreck...but I don't know your wife, if she's up for it..GET r'DID !! : ) ...just say'n.

 

IMO, I wouldn't use the fish to cycle! Also, if you're not planning on them being a permanent addition, be prepared to pull your rockwork to get them out! Alrhough theres angood chance theyll knock eachother off by the ime ya get back! I'd use dr tims, 7 or shrimp, get the initial cycle done, do a WC and add a fish after the cycle is complete!

 

I really dont want to put fish in there to cycle because I dont want the challenge of getting them out.

I like the shrimp cycle but what happens after the shrimp rots away? Will things keep going with no fish in there? I figure with fish in there being fed and all they will keep everything going like it should. Im afraid of the cycle happening then "reverting" I guess because there is nothing going on in the tank after the shrimp is gone. Could that happen?

 

yeah, it can. read this thread;
http://www.3reef.com/forums/new-hobby/water-changes-during-cycle-130912.html

how long till ya leave. I'd suggest getting the microbacter7, shrimp, or ya can even use fish food to cycle, then when your aim a trites drop off add a fish that you want for the long haul to keep the tank going. Less fish=less work/worry for the wife while you're gone.

 

After the cycle is complete, then you would add the fish.

 

As much as I hate to do this I think Im going to go "ALL IN". I will get the microbacter7 add 4 or 5 shrimp then in two weeks add a Maroon Clown. I can't have a tank without one and I know they are tough.

What do you all think...will it be a death sentence? If so Im not going to do it.



I have a 55gal going but it has bubble algae in it and I cannot/will not transfer anything over. I wish it was clean, this would be a whole lot easier. ;D

 

I wouldn't advise the clown, at least not until your parameters test out to 0 on the am and nitrite. I would say not guaranteed, but possible death sentence. Why risk it? Wait and let the tank do its thing. If you test out to 0 after 2 weeks, ok, but if it not, to me its not worth the risk.

 

yup

 

I'd only add 1 or 2 shrimp max. Then feed the tank some fish food after thats gone. If ya use the microbacter, you MAY drop your levels in 2 weeks. Kinda hoping corralline or vinny gets on here for ya, they're the cycling pro's. Shoot Dr. Tim a PM, he's a good resource. But I think you're close. Anyway to drag it out another few weeks?