L/R questions

[BlackbMagic]

I have just started to begin progress with my 55 gallon tank. I ordered 45lbs L/R and it will be here tomorrow. When i put it in my tank i don't need established saltwater do I? I'm just starting my cycle so I should be good with new salt water. Can I fill the tank with freshwater while the rock is in and then mix in the salt or does all the salt have to be premixed before i pour on the L/R?

How do i get the hitch hikers and little critters to come out of the rock so i can sift through em? Some people say dip in high salinity SW some say Soda water/carbonated water and others say freshwater. Whats the best way?

I have 45lbs of LR 12lbs of base rock 15-20lbs of live aragonite sand and 50 lbs of regular white marine grade base sand. Will this be enough to cycle or do I need to use a raw shrimp also?

Thanks guys, Looking forward to starting this thing up tom marrow after looking at a brand new almost empty tank for a couple of weeks:goldfish:

 

[reavesinc]

I'd premix the salt water and add the shrimp. I've never dipped my rock I just wait to see what I get.

 

[soccerkidbs]

use the shrimp to kick start the cycle

 

[BlackbMagic]

If you don't dip the rock isn't it a pain to get the unwanted out once they are in the tank? How big of a shrimp do you think I will need?

 

[soccerkidbs]

just one shrimp. make sure it is fresh and uncooked. i also dont scrub my rock but it is true that it is much eaiser to do it now rather than later. i have been lucky on 1 tank to have no aptisia but on my other the battle rages.