[djbacon]

Prow, just wanted to thank you again for all your continueed advice. I've read and re-read your newbies cycling page and just wanted to be clear on this.

Im about 3 weeks into a 14gallon tank. (all live sand, live cured rock and water from an established tank at the LFS) Ammonia and nitrites are down and Im changing out water to reduce levels of NO3 to begin adding a clean up crew.

Stage 1 of the cycle is in good shape and now I want to focus on growing anerobic bacteria. My questions are as follows.

1. Should I still keep the lighting down to a minimumum to prevent excessinve alage growth?
Don't the snails, shrimp etc need the algae to feed?

2. Should I add occasional flake food or something to provide a steady food source?

I want to be very cautious and not rush the addition of too many critters in here, and ensure a good population of anerobic bacteria.

Thanks again