tank cycle question

[putemup]

I can’t remember how I came about the information but from what I recall, isn’t it possible to cycle a tank using raw shrimp in addition to live rock and sand? If so, what is the technique?

 

[jennm]

It is, however the live rock and sand will do the job on their own.

If you really want to use the shrimp method, just get a raw shrimp, drop it in and let it rot, wait for the ammonia and nitrite, and later the bit of nitrate.

When your levels drop to zero again after that, you're cycled.

Jenn

 

[putemup]

I need to use the shrimp anyways (so it might as well help the tank cycle) to get those mean crabs out. I hope to catch all 4 today. Using the glass method you told me about yesterday Jenn.

 

[spike]

If using shrimp but them in some sort of fine netting. Like a clean nylon or media bag. Once they start to deteriorate they will break down and pieces of shrimp will be everywhere. Believe me the smell of the decomposed shrimp will turn your stomach. Have a plan for getting rid of them quick. It does not mean to out them in a bag in the trash.:yuk:

 

[dakota9]

Or just pee in the tank!

Same basic principle:Flush:......

 

[rbredding]

I assume you don't do WC's while you're cycling a tank.. only topoff ?

 

[rbredding]

cool...

 

[spike]

There are some opinions that water changes during a cycle are fine but will slow down your cycle.