I scoured the topics looking for an answer to my question because I thought I saw it once before - but my search terms must not be correct because I can't find it now.
I'm cycling 2 new small tanks. Would it be more beneficial to do so with the lids on or off the jars? Would it speed things up in any manner to do one or the other?
Having no lid at first can potentially increase how much/quickly algae colonizes as it gives increased access for the algae spores. But once the tank is ready for shrimp most recommend a lid as it decreases evaporation (and thus how often you have to top off the tank) and decreases exposure to dust, hair, etc. that can dirty the water.
