cycled?

[phoenix3717]

I recently set up a 29 gal fowlr tank with 30 pounds of live sand, about 15 pounds of live rock that was established from my reef tanks refugium and another fowlr tank, added 3 gallons of water from my reef tank, and the rest was new water that I mixed.

I set the tank up on Sunday and let it run for a few days (a snail that was on the live rock survived).

On Tuesday I tested the water (everything fine) and added a damsel.

Today I tested the water and everything is fine in the new 29.

I normally wouldn't rush through cycling but I have a hex with nitrates through the roof. I've been doing water changes and its getting better but still high. I have a lionfish in it and he doesn't look like he's doing to well, so I was wondering if the new tank is established enough to take on the lion.

 

[JR719]

I would suggest letting it cycle a little longer and keep an eye on the params. Once you go a couple weeks with little to no fluctuation in params, tank should be ok for livestock.
As far as the lion, what size is the hex it is in? From what I understand, not a good idea to keep a lion in less than a 125 just due to the growth of the fish. No room for it to move around when grown. If the fish is really starting to look bad, might be worth a try adding it to the larger (hopefully) tank.