Hi, I recently started up a new SW tank and it has been running for 5 days with 2 power heads, its a marineland eclipse 12gal with integrated bio-wheel and replacable filter media, it also has a strong compact flourescent with standards for sw fish and corals. I just tested my water at my LFS and all parameters were safe for fish. I already have live sand in my tank and a few hermit crabs. I just added 6 pounds of live rock to my tank which are already almost cured when i bought them. right now they are just cycling my tank and i will be doing weekly water changes. how long will it be for my tank to be cycled to the point where it is fish friendly? also if i do weekly water changes and have my filter media and bio wheel remove nitrate and unwanted toxins it should be fine without a protein skimmer? (since im only running a 12gal)
your comments and replies along with suggestions for noob like me would help
plasma19