Tank isn’t cycling using dry rock.

[Nick Stanton]

So, been out of the hobby for a while and decided to get back into it earlier this year. Started my tank (Reefer 350) on March 8th with live sand and dry rock. I used Dr Tims Eco-Balace when I first started the tank (recommended by LFS). I’ve been checking my water a couple times a week and have read 0ppm ammonia, nitrates and nitrites. As of about 2 or so weeks ago I’ve noticed some “dust” looking stuff on the bottom of my sump (see pics) is this a sign that my cycle should be starting sometime soon? Any ideas?
Thanks!

 

[Mike N]

The guy at the LFS was misinformed. Dr. Tims one and only is what you want, not ecobalance.

I would suggest getting dr. Tims one and only as well as some powdered ammonia. Dose the tank up to two parts per million with powdered ammonia and see how long it takes to drop to zero.

If you don't want to go to the powdered ammonia route, you can do the old school method and drop a table shrimp in the tank for an ammonia source.

 

[Copingwithpods]

Did you add any ammonia source? The dust is just sand dust settling out.

 

[PSU4ME]

Yeah if that’s what you used it’s not what you want. As stated, grab the one and only and some form of ammonia to kick things off

 

[Nick Stanton]

Did you add any ammonia source? The dust is just sand dust settling out.

I didn’t add anything to the tank besides the Eco-Balance

 

[Copingwithpods]

Like stated above you need to add an ammonia source to feed the bacteria to start the cycle.