used rocks

cmb88 · #1 10/08/2007, 07:30 PM

so my sister was using figi rock in her fresh water tank. I presume it had been cured at some point, then used in half water half dry tank with fish, frogs, and crabs. I scrubbed it clean (it looks clean) and soaked it in a bucket of ro water and salt (1.026 spe grav) for 1 week with a pimp going. Stimulating a dark cycle kind of..People at pet store say it is fine to add into my 8 month old 14 gallon cube. I am afraid it will cause a spike or cycle change etc. I tend not to trust these people. What are your thoughts? Can I add it to my aquascaping? Thanks
Claire

Agu · #2 10/08/2007, 07:43 PM

Claire,

A week probably isn't enough time. Test for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrates. If there are measurable levels of the first two it's a definite not ready. In any case I'd recommend a water change and waiting at least another week or two at minimum.

Rosseau · #3 10/08/2007, 07:47 PM

I just went through something similar to this.

I had previously used LR from an old tank which had been out of water for about 4 months.

I gave it a powerhead, salt water and about 4 weeks. I changed water 2 times and observed a cycle...

Though I knew it was cured and ready to go into my tank I was hesitant however everything went smoothly.

I hope that helps a bit...?

Sadly, I think the message may be that you need to wait a little longer.

cmb88 · #4 10/08/2007, 09:50 PM

Thanks! better to be safe then sorry thanks a lot. I have some nice zoa's. I did not want to risk crashing my tank. I will wait.

GrandeGixxer · #5 10/08/2007, 09:57 PM

I would also use some tank water from your setup next time you do a water change on it.

Rosseau · #6 10/09/2007, 05:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by GrandeGixxer
I would also use some tank water from your setup next time you do a water change on it.

This is just what I did. Certainly some of that crucial bacteria gets transferred over to the rock and gets multiplying. Also you save on salt mix!