Base Rock to Live Rock

Ron99 · #1 02-26-2009, 06:19 PM

What is the general consensus on how long it takes a piece of base rock to have sufficient bacterial growth etc. to be equivalent to live rock after being added to an existing tank with other live rock?

I ask because I am building a pico tank and want to put some small pieces of base rock into my 10 gallon to "cook" so they can end up being live rock in the pico.

Thanks.

Whatigot · #2 02-26-2009, 06:36 PM

the time can vary greatly.
the only way to know for sure is to test for where you're at in the nitrogen cycle.

With no testing, I would wait 2 months to be sure, especially in a small system.

Ron99 · #3 02-26-2009, 09:30 PM

I don't expect a cycle as they are dry base rock pieces going into an already cycled tank. So about 2 months then sounds about right for dry rock to become sufficiently seeded by cured live rock?

Whatigot · #4 02-26-2009, 09:33 PM

I have added totally dry rock and experienced a cycle.
I suppose if it were rinsed really well, it might help.

I think, if testing is not on the menu, that 2 months waiting would give you pretty good assurance that the rock was live.

Ron99 · #5 02-26-2009, 11:11 PM

Okay, thanks. I'll make some periodic measurements once the rock is in.