Its been a while!

[xcountryx]

Looks like the new Duncan already has a new head growing! Hoping to be getting fish this next week. The snow storm we had delayed the deliveries for the lfs

 

[tbrown]

Looks like the new Duncan already has a new head growing! Hoping to be getting fish this next week. The snow storm we had delayed the deliveries for the lfs

You're doing something right!!!

 

[xcountryx]

Started noticing little brown spots in the sand and on the rock last night before I went to work. Today when I woke up noticed the Duncan's don't look completely happy. Did some tests and turns out my ammonia is at 1. I feel like I actually didn't cycle when I thought I did. I will be keeping an eye on this to make sure it doesn't get out of hand. Only thing I can do is wait it out. Looks like I'm waiting to get fish then too

 

[AnotherReefHobbyist]

Started noticing little brown spots in the sand and on the rock last night before I went to work. Today when I woke up noticed the Duncan's don't look completely happy. Did some tests and turns out my ammonia is at 1. I feel like I actually didn't cycle when I thought I did. I will be keeping an eye on this to make sure it doesn't get out of hand. Only thing I can do is wait it out. Looks like I'm waiting to get fish then too

I would advise you to add some bacteria in a bottle, they can really cycle a tank fast, and could make sure you don't encounter any losses.

 

[xcountryx]

That's what I did when I started the tank. That's why I thought I cycled already

 

[AnotherReefHobbyist]

That's what I did when I started the tank. That's why I thought I cycled already

interesting! never seen anyone encounter that before.

 

[xcountryx]

It's the first time trying the bottle cycle stuff. I'm not extremely worried at this moment but does kinda suck. I guess I could do a few things to speed it up. Do as you said put another bottle of bacteria in or I could try to do 1 clown I guess but don't want to kill the lil guy tryin that.

 

[Screwgunner]

If by some chance the bottle you bought got frozen or to hot. It might have killed the bacteria in it. That is why I always use 2 and hope for the best. I tried Dr.Tims one and only and nothing happend put biospera in and bam there you go.

 

[xcountryx]

My lfs only had the fluval cycle.

 

[Screwgunner]

That is a big skimmer maybe only run it every other day.

 

[xcountryx]

Yeah the only other skimmer I have is a hydor nano skimmer. Figured that was to small so decided to use the RO. I plan on putting it on the controller too. Right now it's not doing anything due to no fish in the tank. Ive only fed the corals once since I've had them.

 

[Screwgunner]

I'm just worried that big of skimmer will strip you bacteria out of the water column. Use it sparingly.

 

[xcountryx]

Yeah that was my concern also

 

[xcountryx]

Good news! Ammonia has dropped to .25 nitrite is .25. I also put the skimmer on the controller. Gona start out with 2 hours a day skimming and go from there. Once I start stocking with fish I'll be able to judge if I will need more or less skimming

 

[xcountryx]

Ugly uglies

 

[tbrown]

Ugly uglies

Getting close!

 

[xcountryx]

Ammonia is gone nitrite is gone and back to 10 nitrates. The uglies didnt get to bad but I did have bleached dry rock so that made it look worse then it realy was.

 

[xcountryx]

Suggestions for CUC and quantity? Nothing temporary pls must be safe for coral and fish

 

[tbrown]

Suggestions for CUC and quantity? Nothing temporary pls must be safe for coral and fish

You're going to want a mix of hermits. I like Nerite snails, Turbo snails, and at least 1 conch. Emerald crabs are bebefitial if you start seeing bubble algae, but they can cause trouble if you don't get a good one. Nasarius snails are good too.

Check on LiveAquaria for numbers. I throw snails and crabs in semi frequently because they don't last long but I never have as many as they recommend for my size tanks. Currently my 5 gallon has two Nasarius snails, 1 banded trochus, 2 Margaritas, and a couple of limpets (my favorite but you get them as hitch hikers usually).

 

[xcountryx]

https://www.reef2reef.com/classifieds/hydor-slim-skim.4429/