Transition the unattractive initial stage. Proceed to the second step of re-populating your saltwater aquarium with practical sea creatures and microscopic soldiers of bacteria.
In the world of saltwater aquariums, the first four months are often referred to as the '4 month cycle' and are known for being one of the biggest challenges reefers face. This phase is infamously known as the 'ugly brown phase.'
During this period, patience is crucial. The tank may undergo a transformation, with the rock turning brown and various algae taking hold, as well as bacterial type infestations in the form of red or brown slime. However, it's important to remember that this is just part of the journey, and trying to solve it may cause more issues.
An effective strategy for managing this phase involves adopting an ounce of prevention. By turning off the lights for the first four months, microscopic warfare can happen without light, allowing beneficial bacteria to thrive and fight against algae and pests. These bacteria rely on food sources such as organic sludge and detritus, new algae growth, and even other harmful bacteria.
Robert Farnsworth, with over 25 years of experience keeping aquariums of all kinds, recommends using grazers such as snails, hermit crabs, and sea urchins during this phase to protect corals and prevent plant and bacterial pests. These creatures, such as the algae-eating fish, can help prevent algae problems by up to 80% through the first year of the tank.
Before turning on the lights, consider adding Brightwell Aquatics Microbacter Clean, which contains highly valuable heterotrophic bacteria. This can provide an extra layer of protection against algae and pests.
After the four-month mark, it's time to learn how to feed the tank's inhabitants. Utilitarian fish such as Yellow Tang, small Bristletooth Tang like a Kole or Tomini Tang, and a Lawn Mower Blenny are recommended to be added to the tank. Another preventative utilitarian fish to consider is an Aiptasia Eating Filefish, which goes after Aiptasia Anemones, a common pest in the tank.
Phase 2 of the cycle process is all about supporting the good organisms and their efforts to fight the bad ones. High output reef tank lighting is not required until after four months and can perpetuate algae or cyanobacteria growth during this time.
Parasites and various other pests can make their way into the tank via coral frags, and a Six Line or Coris Wrasse can help consume these pests. After allowing any algae bloom or pest outbreak to run its course, Coralline Algae can be introduced to the tank by scraping off some living Coralline from a friend's tank or a small rubble rock purchased from a local fish store.
A clean-up crew can be added after the four-month mark, consisting of Hermit Crabs, Trochus and Nassarius Snails, Emerald Crab, Sand Sifting Starfish, or Sea Urchin (for larger tanks).
Robert Farnsworth, who has been working as a professional content creator in the saltwater aquarium industry for over 18 years, emphasises the importance of this process. His detailed understanding of advanced aquarium techniques and theory makes him an invaluable resource for those embarking on their reef tank journey.
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