I am setting up a 90 gal fishonly tank w/sump, protein skimmer, and UV. What's the best way to cycle this tank? I'm thinking of Chromis as they as suppose to be more peaceful. I used Blue Damsels in the past, but they were too aggressive and I had to get rid of them. In the forum, I read you can use some shrimp pieces. How much? Are there any other fish than damsels that can handle the stress of a tank cycle?
OrionGirl
11-30-2003, 6:55 PM
Fishless cycling is the way to go. Buy 1-2 raw deli shrimp per 20 gallons of water. Toss them in, and start testing in 2-3 days. You'll see the ammonia and nitrite spikes, and when they've hit 0, do a water change to remove nitrates and you are good to stock fish and mobile inverts.
While there are fish that will survive the cycle, they will be injured by the spikes. And, as with the damsels, you're left with fish you don't really want. Fishless cycling harms no fish, and allows you to stock as you choose.