How Long Should I Wait Before Adding Coral to a New Tank?
Quick Answer
Wait at least 6-8 weeks after your tank finishes cycling before adding your first coral. The key milestones are completed nitrogen cycle, stable parameters for 2+ weeks, and established coralline algae growth.
Wait at least 6-8 weeks after your tank completes cycling before adding coral. However, the exact timing depends on your tank's maturity indicators rather than a fixed calendar date.
Signs Your Tank Is Ready for Coral
Before adding coral, confirm these milestones:
- Completed nitrogen cycle: Ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm, nitrates present but controlled
- Stable parameters for 2+ weeks: Temperature, salinity, pH, and alkalinity should be consistent
- Coralline algae growth: Purple/pink algae appearing on rocks indicates good conditions
- Diatom bloom has passed: The brown film stage is over
- Clean-up crew established: Snails and hermit crabs are active and healthy
Recommended Timeline
- Week 1-4: Tank cycling - do not add anything except beneficial bacteria
- Week 4-6: Add clean-up crew after cycle completes
- Week 6-8: Add first hardy fish
- Week 8+: Begin adding beginner-friendly corals
Best First Corals
Start with hardy, forgiving species:
- Mushroom corals - nearly indestructible
- Zoanthids - colorful and tolerant
- Leather corals - great for beginners
- Green Star Polyps - fast-growing soft coral
Why Patience Matters
Rushing coral addition is one of the most common beginner mistakes. A new tank lacks:
- Biological stability: Bacterial populations are still establishing
- Microfauna: Pods and beneficial organisms haven't colonized yet
- Stable chemistry: Parameters can swing unexpectedly
Track your water parameters consistently using the ReefBay app to confirm stability before purchasing coral. When you're ready, browse the ReefBay marketplace for beginner-friendly coral from trusted sellers.
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