Starting new tank with established sand & rock?

I was wondering what everyone's thoughts are on starting a new tank with live rock and sand from an already established tank? Local Craigs list has a few good buys on live sand and rock. Live rock here is 5.99 a lb and up; they are breaking down their tanks and it's only 3.99 a lb for the rock. Would this speed up the cycle?

 

It might speed up the cycle. But personally, IMO, I would never use that stuff. There's no telling what might be locked inside of it to only leach back into your system. If you want to save, go with base rock

 

I don't think it would make a difference if you used old live sand/rock or new stuff. The new stuff is going to have all the organisms as the used stuff. You are going to have die off with both of them. I would get the new stuff though if I were you. It may be more expensive but you know it doesn't have anything wrong with it.

 

Never thought of that. I'll go with lfs live rock. Might be more costly but, good point. :-[ I do NOT want any disasterous starts. Got the tank, the RO system, just waiting on the stand (christmas present) and I'm good to go.

 

Thanks; when I was considering the used stuff never even thought of the disastrous effect it could have. That's why I love it here. Wise people!!!

 

i agree with everyone else. but one thing i did when i shopped for rock was to try to pick pieces that seem to already have more life aka. hitchikers and freebies. with new live rock from an lfs u never know what the rock can provide. but you almost always get suprises whether good or bad. good luck!

 

Good luck! lfs live rock may be more expensive but in my opinion you get what you pay for. How much is piece of mind worth? Granted there is always some risk when adding something to your tank.

 

That's why I like going to lfs to get rock, you can pick & choose and know what you are getting; unlike ordering online. When I had my 65 set up; this particular lfs I did get some really (good) interesting things. I got 60 lbs of live sand Christmas eve. I know that's a lot for a 30 gal. Didn't want to have to go back for more. Going to the LFS tonight to get rock. wooo hooooo I'm excited...

 

I have to say about the good and bad about buying from someone else or the LFS on live rock that either way you don't really know what your getting. I bought from the LFS and it was loaded with Digitate Hydroids. Just food for the soul and its up to you where you get it.

 

I agree. I have gotten many pests from the LR at the LFS. At the store you do have the advantage of being able to inspect the pieces but they could be as bad or worse than any other source. The only way to be reasonably sure is to start with all base rock and then seed it with one small LR from your own tank--one you are sure is pest free. Then again, even then is impossible know for certain.