Using Dry Base Rock

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by Katie Grant, Dec 16, 2009.

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  1. Katie Grant

    Katie Grant Aiptasia Anemone

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    I was looking into buying around 50lb of base rock, never used it before. Do I have to do anything to it before I add it into my tank?:)
     
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  3. 4phish

    4phish Montipora Digitata

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    Not really. Just give it a good rince.
     
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  4. Screwtape

    Screwtape Tonozukai Fairy Wrasse

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    I didn't on my new tank but if you're adding it to an established tank and it's a significant portion of your rock I would look at curing it a little before dropping it in otherwise there may be organic stuff on/in the rock that may rot and cause a cycle.
    If it's a new tank some people "cook" it in a bleach solution to help get rid of some of the organics, then let it dry for a few days, then use a vinegar solution to dissolve the outer layer of the rock and anything nasty that might have been bound to it. I'm sure you can search 3reef or google for instructions on "cooking" rock if you want to look more into it.

    It's up to you and your situation.
     
  5. Katie Grant

    Katie Grant Aiptasia Anemone

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    Thanks! Ill look into that :)
     
  6. Otty

    Otty Giant Squid

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    +2

    Plus it is a lot cheaper to use base rock.
     
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  7. pgoodsell

    pgoodsell Horrid Stonefish

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    +3, I have added base rock to an existing tank with no problems, just rinse it off and put it in.