just starting a 90 gallon tank, first saltwater ever

[classik55]

so i got a 90 gallon drilled tank and i got it filled up with the right water and i got sand and rock im just letting it cycle now i got a couple circulation pumps i still need a protein skimmer and a good lighting system. just wondering if anyone wants to give me any tips on how to make sure my tanks is in tip top shape and how long should i let it cycle for?

[sweedish15]

Just to help with bacterial growth, when I cycled my tank years ago (90 gallon) it was recommended to me to stick a raw shrimp on the bottom and add a shot of vodka to help kick off the cycle. Basically the shrimp rots and the vodka is a carbon source for the bacteria to really start growing. Its much more friendly than throwing in a damsel and watching him die for the sake of your cycle. Obviously this method is not for anything living in the tank. It worked great for me, had awesome bacterial growth over night.

As far as cycle time youre looking at 6-8 weeks, but the only way to be sure is to test your water and follow the cycle until your main cycle parameters ammonia, nitrite, nitrate go through their swing and back down to zero. Then you truly know the bacteria is present and strong. Then start stocking the tank slowly so the bacteria can keep up.

Be patient and start easy. Ive been keeping a saltwater tank for 10+ years and alot is trial and error. If you arent absolutely sure about something dont buy it, until you do your research. Be cautious of local fish store advice. Im sure you've realized livestock can be very expensive and its upsetting to put your hard earned money into something and watch it die or fight. Lastly buy quality equipment for the important stuff, even if it takes longer for you to obtain it. If you buy cheap you will be buying twice or going without.
Just my advice.

[gone fishin]

^^^ pretty good advice not much else to add to that.