how does using live rock/sand cycle a tank

[talal101]

i have read on a few threads of people talking about how they are using or will use live rock and live sand to cycle the tank?, how is that possible without an external ammoniabeing added into the water? am i missing something?

 

[PSU21Reef]

If you buy live rock that is completely cured it already has beneficial bacteria on it. If you put uncured live rock in your tank, organisms on your rock will die and that will start the cycle.

Live sand is usually not worth the money unless you're getting it directly from another tank.

 

[talal101]

oh i get it now, so i should buy uncured live rock to start my cycle, will the live rock be enough and how long would this method take?

 

[Otherone]

Yup - 3-6 weeks depending on how cured the rock is.

 

[talal101]

Ok thanks, what if I get cured live and try the rotting prawn method