How do you introduce new live rock to an existing reef?

So I have had my tank running for a couple of years but I wish I had added more rock when I set it up. I have an opportunity to pick up a couple of decent sized pieces to add to my tank but I am wondering what the best way to introduce them to my tank would be with out starting another cycle...I don't want to negatively impact what I have in the tank.

 

Vegasreefguy

how large is the tank and how large are these new pieces of rock?

if you where to add dry rock - you would have zero issues , everyone on the site would agree with that

they wont agree with what comes next (some might)


many people would add a large rock full of Zoanthids or Mushrooms, without a moments thought , but the minute its termed "live rock" and there are no corals on it there is a tendency to become concerned about "mini cycles"?

there may be die off, there may be a breif period where the bacteria needs to increase in numbers to cope with the increased bio load of any die off
but there would be same situation if the rock had shrooms on it or if instead of rock, you where adding a fish

you do need to be 100% sure of the source of the rock, as you may introduce unwanted pests into the system, crabs, algaes etc ( as you could if it where a shroom or zoanthid covered rock in truth) - these issues dont arise if you add base rock though

Wait and see what other responces you get on this issue before making any desicions


Steve

 

Thanks for the fast reply...the tank is 125 gal. I am looking at adding probably 2 pieces that are between 25 and 45 lbs each. From what I understand the rocks will have been out of water for at least 1 day by the time they reach me today but I am not 100% sure of that...I just know they are traveling from out of state via a fellow hobbyists car. There is prbly about 150 lbs of rock in the tank atm.

 

I think your tank will be fine, its already established. Just monitor the parameters and be prepared to do a water change! I did an entire tank change in one day and switched from CC to LS and I was ok!

 

welcome
well if there out of water for that long they wont be live rock when you get them
they will be rock with a lot of decaying/ dead life forms on them

my comments above where all based on the transit of rock from one system to another system whilst remaining wet or at least damp

check out the threads do a search on Nuke ing live rock - as this may be a better option in this circumstance

if they are going to be transported wet or submerged then I believe it would be OK

Make a decision when you get the rock - if its wet OK of its bone dry, nuke it

Steve

 

Thanks for the guidance...I will do that.

 

See if the person with the rock can put them in a plastic tub with some water for the trip. If its not to late.