When can I add SPS after cycle

[jokim]

I have a new tank setup and half way through its cycle. I am not in a rush to add anything in the tank but just wondering when can you add SPS to a new tank? Just looking for a general answer so i can start looking at what i want to stock.

 

[badmotorfinger7]

IMO when coralline algae starts growing.

 

[smtank]

I would wait until at least 6 months down the road. Many things to into a cycle that we do not and can not test for. New systems have parameter swings and are unstable. I would test the systems ability to maintain corals with something less expensive for awhile first, and then start with some of the easier sps.

 

[reefer1979]

i 2nd the coraline suggestion, i usually say when the coraline on the glass grows to the size of a quarter and a razorblade is needed to remove it. somewhere at or about 3 months is about hte earliest you can add em without too much fuss. the longer you wait the more stable you tank will get and then you have better chances for success; also try adding frags that have been encrusting and are doing well.

 

[Pmoss]

I waited until coraline had covered the rear and sides of my in wall before I started adding SPS........... 14/14 frags show good growth, but theres other factors as well. Tank stability is a big deal.

 

[dan-in-gr]

Hi, I waited two months and then added my SPS (about 40 frags). The tank is only for SPS and its a 90 gal with MH, bio-reactor , kalk reactor, and only two tangs, my bio load is low and my parameters are always perfect and stable. For most people this is hard to do right away with little experience, but I have 14 yrs experience. i would wait a while for tank to really stabilize and make sure you test water frequently. I also dose kalk every night without fail. The other guys are right, wait until you have Coraline algae on rocks and tank glass. Keep fish load very low, you can add them six months down the road and stay away from leathers and anything else that will do "chemical warfare" on SPS.

 

[Brian Chong]

I agree. coralline on glass and stability is good. if you add any additional live rock afterwards, do it slowly

 

[allsps40]

IMO when coralline algae starts growing.

+1 and growing well, nickel to quarter sized spots.