75 Gallon Reef Tank

Hello, and thank you for reading this. Marvin The Betta died. I am getting a 75 gallon saltwater tank because one that was already set up got sold before I could get it. When I set it up and let it cycle, do I need to go ahead and put in sand and rocks while it cycles? or just wait until it is done? Thank you for your help! Also do I need to do anything special before I put in corals and fish? Thanks, Marvin The Betta.

 

Your cycle in a saltwater tank is primarily in the rock so that will have to be added to cycled your tank.

 

Your cycle in a saltwater tank is primarily in the rock so that will have to be added to cycled your tank.

Wow! You were fast and thank you for responding! So I need the rock, but what about the sand? And when can I put in corals?

 

Those questions I'm not sure of. I know the basics but that's about it.

 

The few I helped set up we did all the sand and dry rock so it was all done before they cycled it.

 

Your cycle is maintained by your rock - so, yes, you will want your rock in the tank while you cycle. In fact, you shouldn't have any biological media in your filters at all, unless you're keeping some cycled in case of an emergency. Sand should also be added while cycling, just so it doesn't cloud up your tank and cause an ammonia spike later.

Corals need a stable environment - generally, you'll let a tank cycle, then you'll add a clean-up crew, wait a week, and then you'll add your first fish and your first few hardy corals.

It sounds as if you probably have a lot more research to do before you go about setting up a tank - saltwater does require a lot more up-front knowledge than freshwater. It's much easier to know these things before hand before running in and ending up losing a lot of stock and money. Do some reading with this guide:

Nart's Budget Nano Saltwater Guide For Beginners

 

I would put both the sand and rock in. If using "dry" live rock get a chunk of live and that will cycle your tank. That's how I've done it. Live rock costs more so I just bought one chunk of live. Then again I'm cheap lol.

 

Is the 75 gallon pre-drilled with a sump, protein skimmer and return pump? If not, I would pass on it and go with one that has the aforementioned as it will save you significant cost and hassle.

 

The few I helped set up we did all the sand and dry rock so it was all done before they cycled it.

Ok Thanks