My first tank cycling experience took 6 months.

[Davie118]

I am just curious what everybodies opinion is about the best way to cycle a new tank? Do you do water changes often? Do you add any additive products?

[Troy Valentine]

For me I usually add a couple of pieces of live rock, and live sand from several established systems. I will do small 3% to 5% weekly water changes for 6 weeks, and leave the skimmer off until the system is finished cycling. This will give me a good biodiversity. I have also used the Prodibio Bioptim and Biodigest with some success during the cycling process. I still use Biodigest a few times a year in my 11 year old system. Feed your tank a small micron food like decasulated brine shrimp or Reefroids ect. every 3 days. This will offer food to your newly introduced detritivores, and will help prepare your system for the introduction of macro life and the bio load that comes with them. Don't be afraid of algae during the cycling process it is a normal part of the biological process while the system finds its equilibrium. If I follow these steps, my systems biological foundation is well established within 2 months.

[klwheat]

Great advice Troy!

[leliataylor]

Great post Troy. I basically do what you are describing. If people get in a hurry and add fish too soon they can cause problems with the bio filter. It is best to be patient and let the tank establish itself before you add fish. Avoid the temptation to add a lot of fish at once. Slow and steady additions (1 or 2 at a time) is your best option.