How simple can a frag tank be?

[bmackcw]

So, I just went on a coral buying bender.

I have a full second tank setup in the basement. 55g with 20g sump, 6-bulb T5, Jebao wave makers, nice return pump.

If I were to have ONLY coral - no sand or rock - do I still need to cycle? Could I just add water and coral?

I run a sweet red sea reefer 425XL. I don't want to put frag racks in it.

I assume the answer is "god no, what are you thinking?" but wanted to ask you fine people.

 

[thegrun]

Corals need food in addition to light, so you need something to help break down the waste. It can be a simple spun glass brick, a little bit of rock or even a sponge but you do need something to host the bacteria. Not a lot, but something.

 

[bmackcw]

Corals need food in addition to light, so you need something to help break down the waste. It can be a simple spun glass brick, a little bit of rock or even a sponge but you do need something to host the bacteria. Not a lot, but something.

So, if I set up the tank with 30 percent water from my main tank, 70 new, added a little live rock to the sump (plus some dead rock), do you think I'd need a standard 30-day cycle, or would I be ok to immediately add some frags?

 

[AlSimmons]

You should be ok adding frags right away. Assuming the rock is cured and it's been in your tank for quite awhile, all your really doing is moving a filter from here to there. Lot's of tanks are manipulated this way.