Using Rock other than Live?

[number1sixerfan]

I have just cleared a cichlid tank(55g) and I would like to do salt sometime in the future. I do not think it is worth it to start up another tank of fw if I want to convert it in the near future. However, I don't want to pay $400+ for live rock when I already have $300 worth of texas holey rock. I know that live rock has many benefits and how great it is. I just don't want to purchase it right now.

My question is will the texas holey rock eventually propagate the same type of growth as the live rock? My lfs guy said it would, but I need affirmation. Also, after the growth takes place, would the white(color of the texas rock) still be visible?

Thanks!

[Reefscape]

Hmmmm...i thought your name was familiar with Texas Holey Rock...lol...

Here is some previous discussions on the use of texas rock...

http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=113963&highlight=texas+holey+rock

http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11755&highlight=texas+holey+rock

Hope they help

Niko

[fsn77]

I've heard of people using Texas holey rock for sw. Once you convert to sw, a few nice pieces of live rock will help to seed the holey rock with the beneficial bacteria, copepods, amphipods, and other microfauna you'll be wanting / needing -- essentially converting it to live rock.

By time your sw tank reaches 6 - 10 months of age, you likely not know what color any of the rock was originally. Coralline algae will likely cover a large portion of it.

[number1sixerfan]

Thanks guys! So I should just start a full blown cycle?

Thanks for the links also, I didn't have time to search as I am moving things around and wanted to know before I filled the tank back up with the rock.

[Reefscape]

Thanks guys! So I should just start a full blown cycle?

Thanks for the links also, I didn't have time to search as I am moving things around and wanted to know before I filled the tank back up with the rock.


Yes mate, just go for a good cycle using pure ammonia or raw shrimp/prawn as the ammonia source...

Niko

[number1sixerfan]

Well, the sand and rock is already seeded with good bacteria. In addition, the filter is also seeded. I just literally took the water out today. Does this eradicate the need of a cycle? Or do I need to do a "different" cycle for sw? Sorry, I am a total noob when it comes to sw.

Thanks

[Reefscape]

Yes, you will need to recycle for a marine system as its a different type of bacteria to use..I would also fit new media to the filter if it was me..

Niko