How to turn dead base rock into live rock ?

Plesoine · Aug 20, 2015

I now have a 17 tanks, 6 systems. I'm starting a new 7 tank system. Live rock isn't cheap. I have bought some dead base rock that looks good and is a lot cheaper then live rock. Idea's how to how to introduce this rock into system and help turn it into live rock? I've done it in the past but curious if anyone has better ideas then what I have done.

chefjpaul · Aug 20, 2015

Few ways-
Cycle it in a bin.
Throw it in your tanks / sumps
Cycle in bin w/ nitrifying bacteria to jump start.

BUT!
Acid wash it first. Muric or vinegar.
Plenty of u tube videos about.

LILBUDDHA · Aug 20, 2015

I would remove some good rock and place it in a bin , trash can etc . I put in some circulation with some carbon and gfo ..
I add the dry rock and add some light . Usually a blue bulb and actinic and let it go for months until its all colored up . Water changes done as needed .
I prefer live rock that has been shipped in .I had some nice live rock that was cherry picked over the years . It is now power washed and brushed down soaking in a bin with some left over GMP live rock to seed it .Going to be a long process but I think it's going to be worth it .