Fast answer
Most reef tanks need 4-6 weeks to cycle before fish, and 6-10 weeks before beginner corals.
Day 1-7
- Set salinity 1.025
- Temp 77-78F
- Add bacteria + ammonia source
Day 8-21
Test ammonia, nitrite, nitrate every 2-3 days. Expect ugly phases.
Day 22-35
Add one hardy fish only after ammonia and nitrite stay at zero for a full week. Browse starter livestock: clownfish, goby, snail.
Day 36-45
Begin easy coral slowly: zoa and toadstool. Keep changes small and consistent.
Track all parameters in the ReefBay app.
