few questions

ive had african cichlids in my 55 for a couple years and i just cant pass up the beauty and challange with salt. ive been researching for about 6 months and taking my time stocking up on equipment. just built a diy stand hood and 29 g sump with eshopps overflow. i have a coralife protien skimmer which i may upgrade later, and two koralia powerheads. has anyone heard anything about the oddyssea lighting? i have a friend with a brand new one which will be practically free. also once im ready for salt and substrate what is the reccomeded procedure for stocking substrate and live rock? really need to do this right the first time!!

 

Well, the first question I have for you is: when set up as a fresh water tank, did you EVER put any medication or copper in it?
It sounds like you have a good equipment list. I have never run Oddysea lights myself, but I know they do not have the best reputation.
As for rock and substrate, use dry base for both. Seed the system with a cup of live sand from an establish tank and 1 piece of live rock. Saves money and will help keep you pest free.

 

no copper or meds. just water treatment and perfect ph. can i get just a cup of live sand? dry base? are you talking about the bags from the lfs?

 

Dry base is just that, dry rock or sand that will have no life on/in it. I am not sure what your LFS stocks, but either are easily available through mail order.
For the amounts of sand, get it from someone who has a tank up and running. Check at the LFS or look to see if you have a local reef club in your area.

 

thank you so much for your input. so i add the sand and rock after or before salt water? it will then cycle correct?