Initial stock of sand / rock question

[lmm1967]

Been trying to decide if I should buy a package from Tampa Bay Saltwater or purchase sand & rock , cycle and start building from there.

I really like the idea of making sure the entire tank is as close to being an in balance mini ecosystem as possible. Pricing isn't a concern because either way is very close to the same amount of money.

So - buy 60lbs of sand + 60lbs of live rock, cycle, add crabs, snails, reef safe shrimp, brittle star etc

Or package it up?

Looking for experienced opinions.

This will be going in a 60 cube BTW

 

[nickh06]

Go dry rock, avoid pests at all costs. You will thank me later

 

[lmm1967]

Nickh06;1050603 wrote: Go dry rock, avoid pests at all costs. You will thank me later

That was my third option - which I forgot to mention.

Start as close to 100% "clean & critter free". This would also be the lowest cost & longest to implement. Both of which I am fine with.