Walt Smith Dry Rock 2.1 / Reef Rock 2.1 - DO I NEED TO CYCLE?

[bboersma79]

I can't seem to find an answer on this product, I have 100# to add to a new build and was wondering what I need to do prior to putting it into my display.

I have read that "BRS rock" which is similar, should be cured in salt water for a few weeks, while others have just said an intense spray with RO and shake out.

I plan on adding some clean LR to the tank at approximately the same time.

Thanks!

 

[shermanator]

You need to treat it like any other dry rock -- except being manmade, you don't have to worry about leaching phosphate. So yes, you will need to cycle your tank, even if you add some amount of live rock to it -- to make sure you have adequate biological filter prior to adding livestock. I would rinse it in RO prior to adding to your tank.

 

[bboersma79]

thanks, does it need to be cured though (or prepped before I start cycling?)

 

[shermanator]

Nope, does not need to be cured. The BRS rock that needs curing is pukani because there is a ton of 'crap' (organics, dead stuff) on that rock (their reefsaver doesn't need to be cured). The Walt Smith 2.1 has none of that and can be used directly without need to cure it. If you have not bought the rock yet, it's very nice rock... the color looks great and has a real live rock look and feel to it.

 

[Ghlreefer]

Mine has been leeching PO4 for nearly 4 months.

I'd nuke the crap out of it with Lanthanum Chloride if I were you.