Add Seachem Matrix while the tank cycles?

[JakeK]

Hi Everyone,
I'm about to get started in this hobby. I purchased a Biocube 29 and I am going to remove the bioballs and go with a combination of biological, chemical and mechanical filtration in the back. For the biological I am thinking of using Seachem Matrix. My question is whether I should add the Matrix into chamber 2 while the tank is cycling or wait till the tank has completed its cycle?

Feel free to provide input on the use of Seachem Matrix too if you think it's not right or a waste of money.

[ReefsandGeeks]

Go ahead and put it in ther during the Cycle. The cycle is when you're building up your bacteria, and the matrix ia a place for that bacteria to grow. I have a canister filter which I have one tray full of matrix. I don't know how much it's required, as if you have enough rock it performs the same funtion. But I keep mine because I'm not going to remove it unless I have a compelling reason to. I'd probably use the money to buy another peice of live rock if I were to start another tank. If you don't want any more rock in the display, the matrix may be a god option though.

[JakeK]

Thank you!