Adding sand?

[mirandacollc]

I have 100 lbs to add to the exsisitng tank. How much can I add without starting a cycle? I have 100 lbs in there now and it barels covers the bottom. I can see through the bottom and want to cover it and eventually get to a dsb. Any thoughts? Its fiji pink I dont think it matters.

[jbaker]

Anytime you add new life to your tank you will get some type of cycle. It's jus a matter of how big of a cycle and wether or not your bio filter can handle it sufficiently

[jbaker]

Nice tank by the way, I like the rock work setup.

[mirandacollc]

Originally Posted by jbaker

Nice tank by the way, I like the rock work setup.

Thank you It took an entire day to work into that shape. I was thinking about adding a little each week over the next few weeks but im trying very hard to finish ridding the algae bloom that i had that was massive. im finally getting over it and dont want that to happen again.

[coral reefer]

ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT LIVE SAND?
Also, live sand should not alter your reading and cause a cycle. Cycles are caused through the death of living organisms and the bacteria used to negate the nutrients/ammonia, nitrites and nitrates associated with dead organisms! The sand should have living bacteria to help to maintain some sort of stability.

[unclejed]

Not to argue but live sand will have some kind of die off (although it could be minimal) and will cause a slight cycle. I would estimate 1-2 lbs and add live bacteria then wait for a couple of weeks to see what you get. If nothing, you know you have the proper procedure so you can repeat that until you get the depth you want.

[mirandacollc]

CAn I add non live and have it become live or is that asking for trouble? I would think it will become live but dont want to make a mess here.

[sean122]

i was told if i added live sand and sone reef base sort of substrate they would seed and it would all become live??

Sean