Start up Q's

[Ryanjo]

I started a 30 Gallon tank last week. Used this Fluval Bio-enhancer to help it cycle (LFS guy said its best). I have 2 flow rate 400s moving water, and a cascade 700 canister filter.
My question is, do I still need to use raw shrimp? Levels as of last night are:
Ph- 8.2, ammonia- 0, nitrite- 0, nitrate- 15, calcium- 420(which is good but low).

Also, is a sump and skimmer necessary for a tank this small?

 

[Nascar99]

Hm.. If it's been only a week you should Stoll have an ammonia reading in my experience so I'd add the raw shrimp

You don't need a sump, some people don't use them on big tanks even

I don't use a skimmer so hopefully others can answer your filtration questions

But if you don't use a skimmer you need to do more water changes to remove waste so it's really all in what you want. A skimmer makes things easier and cleaner for sensitive corals

Good luck

 

[sirrealism]

What is your end goal? Fish only or keep corals? This makes a difference in what we would suggest.

 

[nanoreefing4fun]

to ReefSanctuary, a real Sanctuary of reef forums, with lots of very nice members

Start a tank thread & share your tank with us so we can follow along, we love pics

The problem... with all the "instant cycle" products... is it will then mask your test results...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FPIZ8Y0/?tag=reefsanc-20

• Powerful team of beneficial bacteria immediately inoculates aquarium water
• Creates a safe biological habitat for your fish
• Eliminates ammonia and nitrite
• Will not harm plants; animals or humans
• Size: 8.4 oz.

It apples & oranges...

a great read....

http://reefsanctuary.com/forum/inde...on-cycling-breaking-in-a-new-reef-tank.26180/

 

[nanoreefing4fun]

Pretty tank & rock !