Cycling a 16 Gallon

[hunk]

I've started a new 16 gallon FOWLR SW tank. However my question is, since I've never tried a fishless cycle before. I put in the substrate (About 3 inch) add water and added 19Lbs of uncured LR. After that I put in some shrimp from the grocery store to let it run. Am I doing the right thing? Should I put in the LR when the Nitrites are down or can I cycly my tank with those uncure LR.

I have already done it and what should be done if what I am doing are not right. I have noticed that the shrimps have turn red in colour and there are worms all around the tank. Why are those worms coming out from those LR? Should I remove those worms or just leave it as it is?

Lastly how long do you reckon that the cycling will take. After those nitires are down should I change water before adding fish or shall I keep the exisiting water? Please help. Thank you!

[MonoSebaelover]

Sounds as if you are doing everything perfectly. You will want to leave the live rock in the tank due to the fact it is uncured so will add to the ammonia and nitrite, so it is best to leave it in. It should take at least a month or so. It is best to get a test kit and test it at two weeks to see where you are. After the tank is done cycling you can just leave the same water in and add a single fish. Not sure what the worms are but they are more than likely something beneficial so I would just let them do their thing. Anyway, hope this helps.