New Tank upgrade

[Diana A]

I currently have a 46 gallon reef tank that has been running for 3 years. I am about to upgrade to a 90 gallon. I know that I add sand first then salt water. My question is when do I add my 3 year old live rock to the new 90g tank?...during cycling or after cycling??

 

[thegrun]

I would first cycle the new rock you plan on adding in addition to what is in your 46 gallon tank. You can cycle it in the new 90 gallon tank or in a separate container like a Brute trash can. Once the new rock is cycled, I would fill the new 90 half way with saltwater, aquascape the new tank with the new and old rock, then add new dry sand (washed well to remove the fines/dust), top off the tank with saltwater and then transfer your livestock.

 

[Diana A]

Thank you for the reply.