Noob getting confused !

OK, I have read and read...and read so much i'm getting confused and lost ...cool huh !

A few questions :

I HAVE : ( see Sig ) 90 Gal used tank set up 10 days ago, all water within req parameters, about 40 lbs LR ( from previous owner w/ some red, green, brown colors ) 4 Damsels, 1 med sized Red Legged Hermit, Sally Light Foot Crab and several small Hermits, all look and seem happy......no worries in that department ;D I have talked to the LFS and don't want to bother them if don't have to, plus this gives others info !!

Questions:

I understand the cycling, but would like some info regarding the lights and skimmer? Should I run only Minimum lights until the system cycles to reduce the up-and-coming Algae Attack?? It currently has a stock 80 watt 2 bulb light box ( the Nova Extreme Pro 6X54 is on its way W/ seperate Moon lights )

Should I run the Protein Skimmer in a skim mode ?? I understand the injecting of air is necessary ( LFS said no need to run it for a few months due to no proteins ) but I was playing with it and ran it for a few days on dry skim and actually got green liquid, but am concerned that this is a necessary evil to assist in the initial cycling process?

I do have some fish / inverts in the tank ( srry wife can't wait ) and they seem happy, but I am concerned for Inverts having enough food? I have some Algae wafers for fresh water would that be acceptable?? and will it hurt the Damsels??

Thanks for your replies !!

 

since you have stock already, I would run the skimmer.

Keepin min lights is a good idea as well. good luck van.

~Kerbstreet~

 

I would be concerned with the fact that your tank hasn't cycled yet and you have all those inverts. With the live rock form an existing tank, you should be ok in that department as the inverts are good scavangers, but with elevated ammonia and nitrites, you may be bitting the bullet.
Lighting, I wouldn't be to concerned about it but I would run the skimmer as it will remove more than just proteins. Lighting is more for corals and other symbiotic animals as well as macroalgae.

 

Thanks for the fast responses!!

LFS said the Inverts were ok as they can handle the Ammonia levels as well as the Damsels for " starting the Cycle " they said to bring the Damsels back when it finishes for a trade in ....LOL ....providing they survive...sacrifical lambs comes to mind! The inverts were recommeded to start cleaning the LR that was transfered to the tank.

Since the purchase of these guys, I have since learned so much more .....and will continue to read for more info.

I will continue the Skimmer and watch my levels ....I am concerned for the inverts and have algae wafers on standby !! already attached to the little dude/dudettes!!