|
| |
|
FAQs about Live Rock 7 Related Articles: Live Rock, Reef
Systems, Refugiums,
Related FAQs: Live
Rock, Answering Some LR FAQs by James Fatherree,
Live Rock 1, LR
2, LR 3, LR 4, LR
5, LR 6, Curing
Live Rock, LR Life Identification, Live Rock Selection, Shipping/Moving,
Placement, Lighting,
Water Quality, Live
Rock Studies in Fiji Collaboration & Charts, Copper
Use, Marine Landscaping, Marine
Biotope, Sumps, Refugiums, Faux
Rock, Base Rock,
Gymnangium hians one of many undesirable hydroids...
|
|
Dead Live Rock 4/22/08
Hi guys,
<Craig.>
Hope you can help me with a problem, a couple of months ago I split with my wife
and last week she called and said my tank was not working. I have now returned
to my tank and found all live stock dead and it smelling stale.
<Not good.>
I stripped the tank and placed rock in freshwater and asked for salt to be added
to it. I returned today to find salt not added. I know the rock will be dead,
but is there anyway I can use it in a tank again? It has been kept in water all
time or is it no good?
<It sounds like you will have basically base rock on your hands. You can put
this in a tank with some new live rock and it will repopulate in time. Get it in
some saltwater ASAP in the hopes of saving anything on it, but from the sounds
of things it is doubtful. Either way you will have a curing period as all the
dead matter decays.>
Hope you can help CRAIG
<I hope this does help, Scott V.>
Re: Feed Live Rock? (I
Would!) – 01/30/08
Thanks for answering so quickly!
<<Quite welcome>>
I bought some shrimp pellets, and my creatures are eating them (except for the
shrimp, but I guess if he did it would make him a bit like a cannibal), though
not as readily as they eat the flakes.
<<Really?>>
In answer to your question, I am monitoring my tank's nitrogen levels, and I've
had a consistent reading of zero for both nitrite and nitrate.
<<Very good>>
One more question.
<<Okay>>
I've considered not asking, since I think it might be seen as a really dumb
question, but here goes: How close do I need to get the food to the creature I'm
trying to feed?
<<Not “dumb” at all>>
Can I just drop a few pellets or flakes into the tank and expect that whoever is
hungry will find it?
<<If there is enough to go around, and if the creatures are motile and not
strictly nocturnal (else feed some after the lights go out), then yes. Though if
you fear some may not be getting their fair share (Brittle Stars will often not
venture from their lairs under bright lighting unless close to starving),
placing some food “within reach” is always an option>>
At present, I'm hand-feeding the brittle stars, placing the flakes just outside
the entrance to the shrimp's hole, and placing a piece of food next to the sea
star. Then I sink a few more flakes or pellets at random spots, for the ones I
may have missed.
<<This sounds fine…though it will likely become less necessary as the tank
develops/matures>>
Thank you for the help you've given me.
<<Happy to assist>>
I realize I may have a touch of OCD.
Mandy
<<Ah, a true hobbyist then! Regards, Eric Russell>>
Live Rock Dying? Nope Just Changing
10/2/07
Hi all and many thanks for all your past help!
<Hi Micky, Mich with you again.>
Right down to the nitty gritty, I run a 280 litre (75 gallon) saltwater tank
with coral sand, 9 decent size pieces of live rock, airstone, Fluval 405
external filter, Aquaclear 30 powerhead with quick filter attachment, Visitherm
300 watt heater and a Arcadia T8 over tank luminaire with white and blue tubes.
My tank has just finished cycling and I am saving for a protein skimmer as I’m
in no rush to stock yet.
<Very good.>
My problem is my live rock has some nice pink coralline growth but has faded
since being introduced,
<Happens, not to worry.>
also one large piece looks very brown/orange and this seems to be spreading to
adjacent pieces.
<Does it blow off with a turkey baster? May just be accumulating detritus.>
Do you think this piece is dead or dying?
<No.>
It has a few red crown like things growing on it
<Likely feather dusters.>
but other than that it looks dead.
<Give it time... amazing things will soon immerge if you are very observant.>
Also another piece seems to be getter covered in hairy green algae is this good
or bad?
<Ummm, is not desirable. But can be part of the cycling... just don't let it get
out of control. More here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/avoidingalgaeproblesm.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/nutrientcontrol.htm >
Also I went away for the weekend and came back to loads of brown patches over my
coral sand?
<Likely Cyanobacteria... Some reading for you here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/bluegralgae.htm >
Any help would be greatly appreciated,
<No worries here Micky.>
Thanks, Micky
<Welcome, Mich>
How much LR is too much for larger fish? Reading 9/26/07
Hi!
<Hello>
I recently purchased a 125 gallon tank and am looking to buying some live rock.
I was only going to put 90 pounds of LR in the tank because I am concerned that
too much LR would limit space for the fish that I want. I would like to start
with (1) one spot Foxface, (1) Hippo Tang, & (2) purple firefish. What is your
opinion on the amount of live rock?
<Read here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/volume_2/cav2i3/Live_Rock/live_rock.htm
and the linked files below. Bob Fenner>
Adding, using LR in FO...
8/19/07
I have a 125 gallon fish only marine aquarium established about 4 months
now. I have a coral beauty, a flame angel, 5 yellowfin blue damsels, 4 4-striped
damsels, 3 ocellaris clowns, 2 tomato clowns, 1 high fin (Banggai) cardinal, a
yellow tang, 2 firefish gobies, 2 green Chromis, 2 chocolate chip sea stars and
1 brittle star. All fish are (currently) small. I have an Eheim 2028 filter with
appropriate substrate and ChemiPure in the top basket, a wet-dry Eheim 2229, an
Aquaclear 110 filter with charcoal, a submariner UV sterilizer, a Red Sea deluxe
protein skimmer, a Magnum 350 and Magnum H.O.T. (both with micron cartridges
that I change weekly), an undergravel filter with 3 strong powerheads (crushed
coral gravel), and a PhosBan phosphate reactor. After all this was established,
I read about and decided to add some live rock just for the tang and angels to
have algae to nibble on (and for the additional filtration).
<Good idea>
I don't intend to grow a reef tank or corals.
My question is: Can I (please?) just add live rock to the aquarium with some
additional lighting? (How much lighting?)
<Sure and "not that much"... There are a myriad of organisms that live in/on,
"are" live rock... many of which are not photosynthetic at all... and a good
deal that get by on low illumination... I would not go out of your way to change
the lighting for the LR>
I really don't understand the reason some aquarists say you can't use live rock
with a UG filter or wet dry filter.
<Mmm, this is not so... can be used in all settings>
Please enlighten me. Also, please let me know what changes I would need to make
to successfully add live rock.
I really enjoy and appreciate your website, and would be grateful for any advice
you can give me. Thanks, Val
<Mmm, as far as I recall, we don't have direct input re these issues,
consequences... But a cursory reading here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/liverock1.htm
for the linked files above... should get you oriented, informed. Cheers, Bob
Fenner>
|
Re: Adding live
rock with some growth on it to a non-reef tank
7/27/07
Hello James,
<Hello>
Attached are a couple of pics! Your feedback is very much appreciated.
<At the distance the picture was taken at, I cannot see any bubble type algae
growth. If your camera has macro capabilities, take
a pic closer up to the subject algae. I do see Cyanobacteria starting in the
foreground.
<James (Salty Dog)><<File not saved for image. RMF>> |
|
 |
Live Rock Question. Adding Live Rock 7/24/07
First of all, I can't thank you enough for providing all of this information
and personalized responses, free of charge. This site, along with my book by
Robert Fenner, are collectively the Bible of Marine Aquarium Keeping .
<Welcome to the church of Bob, the initiation ritual will begin shortly.><<Can't
wait to cash in on the relics biz! RMF>>
Here's the issue: I have the opportunity to acquire some live rock, free of
charge. <Nice>
The problem is, it has been in a neglectful state for about a year in a guy's
aquarium. His lights went out, one by one, without being replaced and little or
no maintenance has been done. It has been in water the whole time, so it has not
dried out, but it is not as clean or good looking as fresh, cured live rock.
<Could have some nice stuff on it if it has not had any fish predation going
on.>
He claims that if I take it out and clean it and re-cure it, all it will take is
the addition of a few additional pieces of good rock, and it will eventually be
as good as new (with critters and such from those pieces spreading on to the
other rock). Is this true? <I would agree here.> Is this rock going to be able
to be rehabbed, or am I better off buying some of my own and curing it? <I would
give it a try, just cure it outside of your main tank.>
Thanks in advance!
Bill in Iowa
<Chris>
LR Cleaning Up Nuisance Growth. 6/6/07
<Greetings! Mich with you today.>
I have an existing tank that does beautifully (120g) My sister had a 75g
that she broke down.
<A family affair.>
I wanted to use some of her LR in my tank. She had a lot of red velvet
algae, slime algae and her rock never looked as pretty as mine does.
<The ugly step rock?>
I have about 50-70lbs of her rock in a 30 gal tank with a power head on it
now. She also had Aiptasia everywhere. What do I need to do with this rock
to make it okay for my tank?
<Basically what you are doing. You may want to use a Rubbermaid-type
container as it may be better to keep this rock in the dark for several
weeks, with circulation and perhaps a heater to keep the temperature
relatively constant.>
Or am I better off throwing it out and getting a few pieces from elsewhere.
<Oh, no! This rock can be revived. More here and the related links in blue:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/lrcurefaqs.htm>
I'm afraid I will transfer the nasty stuff into my tank.
<Understandably.>
Thanks.
<Welcome! Mich>
Nox-Ich and live rock? 4/6/07
Hey dudes thanks for all the help that you have provided. I used Nox-ich in
my tank to cure ick but, I goofed up and used it with the live rock in my tank.
<Now blue LR>
Is there anything that I could do to be able to use it in a different tank with
corals for just the foundation?
<Should be fine... the Malachite Green stain will not "re-release" in the water
to an appreciable extent>
I was also wondering if I would be able to use the tank that I treated ick in
for a in-sump refugium?
<Sure>
Thanks for the help U DUDES ROCK!! GREAT HOBBY AND CHICKS DIG IT!!
<I wish. Bob Fenner>
Live organisms on LR, reseeding LR 3/8/07
Good afternoon!
<Good day! Mich here.>
I currently have a cycled tank with no fish in it.
<OK.>
A few months ago all my fish died, due to a high salinity level (b/c I was out
of town for 2 weeks).
<Really? OK>
The tank has sat empty since then. Now I am ready to start populating my tank
again. The problem is that the salinity level is high (30ppm), so I don't know
if any of the live organisms on the rock have survived.
<Possibly.>
How do I go about repopulating the tank with live organisms? Would buying a few
more pieces of live rock suffice?
<Yes, after you bring down the salinity.>
Thanks in advance for your help,
<You're welcome! -Mich>
Danielle
Adding Live Rock Part II 2/11/07
Hi I'm back,
<Welcome Back.>
You all are great help!! Sorry for asking so many questions that sound so
elementary. <No problem.> But I was wondering after your QT is up and running
with your main tank display water and your sponge filter is seeded/ cycled (2 to
4 Weeks in main tank sump) with the display tank, how long do you have to wait
before you can introduce a new fish to the QT. Is it only a couple of days or
would you have to wait over a week to introduce a new fish to the QT. <A couple
days should be fine.> The reason I have this question is because I thought the
QT had to adjust to the water conditions. <Some, but is mostly accomplished by
seeding and using tank water.>
Thanks again, you all are a great help.
Jeff
<Welcome.>
<Chris>
Quarantine Part III 2/11/07
Hey Web Media,
<Hi>
One more question today I promise. My tank is 36 inches long, can I put a 30
inch light over my aquarium instead of using a 36 inch light. Because my
lighting is going to be under a wooden canopy.
Jeff
<I have done this, it works fine as long as all photosynthetic life is under the
lights. Can be a little dark so you will have to decide if you like the way it
looks.>
<Chris>
Quarantine Part IV 2/11/07
Hi,
I am getting ready up my new tank (58 Gallons) how much live rock can I put in
the Aquarium at first?
Thanks,
Jeff
<All if possible.>
<Chris>
Live rock animals 1/10/07
Hi Guys!
<Hi there!>
I have a 40 gallon tank with about 40 pounds of live rock, 40 pounds of
live sand and 2 power filters rated for 30 gallons each. The only inhabitants are
a Fire shrimp and a blue/ yellow tailed damsel. That set up has been running for
a few years
<Wow!>
now and for the las two months I've noticed a drastic increase in the number of
bristle worms and brittle stars. The stars range in size from 1/8" to almost the
size of a quarter. There seem to be easily a few hundred of each on both the
rock and the sand. I just wanted to know if this is a "good thing". I know a few
of a certain animal might be ok, but an entire colony? Anyway, thanks for all of
your great advice!
<This is absolutely a good thing. Your rock is maturing and new goodies are
showing up. The micro stars are good scavengers, detritus eaters, so on. They
stir the sand, and are even neat to watch. Enjoy them! Have great one ~Jen>
Charlie
Reef Invertebrates book: Wild live rock collection 12/30/06
Hello Anthony/Bob and Crew,
<Eric>
I have been reading the Reef Invertebrates book you wrote in "The Natural Marine
Aquarium Series". Great Book! I am enjoying the extra time you take on each
subject covered. I picked it up mostly because I was interested in exploring the
use of Refugiums. I'm glad I got it as it will save me time and money having
done this reading. Any estimated dates when the other books on Corals and Coral
Fish will be rolling off the press?
<They're still on indefinite stand-still... Now Antoine, in addn. to his new
mag., re-doing his coral prop. book... is fixing up a piece of land in PA... a
barn and greenhouse... and more!!! If there is much more insistence however, I
am going to finish at least the one volume in progress, and put it out for
sale... I swear>
I did want to ask a sincere question which resulted from reading the first
section on live rock collection. Under the title Conservation Concerns: Be
Concerned But Don't on page 28 you stated that most of the "wild" live rock
collected is the result of storm debris or removed by natural causes.
<Mmm, I don't recall this statement... It is NOT factual. The vast majority of
LR is collected by hand in near shore environments... in situ... but is of
extremely low consequence in overall effect/impact>
I think this is great and a responsible means of harvesting. I like "wild" live
rock more so than aquacultured rock. But is it possible that the rock debris, if
left littered around the reef, would result in larger and growing/scattered
reefs?
<Yes>
Or does it result in doing harm to the existing reef or is it just a moot point?
<If there is carbonaceous material in the sea, it will be colonized... in short
fashion>
Much Obliged - Eric
<Thank you for your note, prompting. Bob Fenner>
Tank Upgrade/Adding New Live Rock - 11/14/06
Hi,
<<Hello>>
I have a question regarding a somewhat unique situation.
<<Okey-dokey>>
I currently have a 20L FOWLR. It has about 30 lbs of LR. I am upgrading to a
29 Gal. The rock I have now is actually Base Rock that has been in this tank
for about a year. I have what I think is the max fish load (1 False Perc, I BW
Damsel and 1 Royal Gramma) and this setup seems to be very stable.
<<I would agree on the "fish load", especially considering the potential for
disaster with the BW damsel in this size tank>>
I never have any measurable amounts of ammonia, nitrite or nitrate.
<<Excellent>>
I want to upgrade for 2 reasons. First, I have ordered 16 lbs of real,
coralline encrusted, live rock.
<<Exciting>>
Second, I would like to add a 3rd fish.
<<...?>>
I have the 29 gal tank, but nowhere to set it up until the 20 gal is down and
will be using the existing filtration, lighting and stand for the new setup. I
also have a dry 10-gallon that I can setup with 20W of CF lighting, a power
filter and a protein skimmer. I do not currently have a skimmer on the existing
20 gal.
<<A worthwhile addition>>
The way I see it, I have 2 options. The first would be to cure my new rock in
the 10 gal (with a bare bottom to easily siphon out wastes) and after that, pull
down the 20 gallon, use the 10 gallon as a temp setup for my livestock, and
bring up the 29 gal with a combination of some of my existing base rock and the
newly cured live rock. I would let this run with full lighting (20w actinic and
20w 9325k from my existing setup), filter and skimmer for a week or so and
monitor, and then add back my livestock. I would be saving my existing filter
media from the 20 gal as well as keeping the existing bio-filter from the
existing base rock. My second option would be to move my fish into the 10
gallon along with
1/4 to 1/3 of my existing base rock and some of my existing filter media. I
would then pull down the 20 gal and set up the 29 with the remaining existing
base rock and the new, uncured LR and in essence, cycle this as a new setup
entirely.
<<I think (considering the livestock you have) that you could probably get away
with either scenario>>
My main concern here is that I have never cured real LR.
<<Please read here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/lrcurefaqs.htm>>
I am not sure which would be better, curing the new rock in an isolated system
and then moving the newly cycled rock AND the existing base rock into one new
system, OR getting the new system set up immediately and dealing with the curing
process of the new LR in what will eventually be my primary display tank.
<<You can do it either way...but I would suggest curing the new rock in a
separate vessel. That way the ensuing algal blooms/pest hitchhikers are easier
to deal with>>
Would the second option have the advantage of populating my existing base rock
with new life more quickly or would it actually be harmful to the existing
biological life that has developed on the base rock over the past year?
<<Probably not harmful, but for the reasons already stated I would cure this new
rock separately...the new rock will still benefit the old rock once it is
cured>>
John Arenz
<<Regards, EricR>>
Best way to keep live rock alive 11/15/06
Hi,
This is an excellent site, and is part of my daily readings. Great job! My
dilemma - I'm moving and have a 180g reef system. Because of extenuating
circumstances, I will need to break down the system many months prior to the
move. I know a number of hobbyist who are more than willing to take my inverts
and fish. My question - how long can I keep my live rock, refugium sand and
substrate without an active system?
<With a bit of care, months>
Also, if I can keep all of this for (let say 3-4 months), how should I do
this?
<Best to set up in a new trash can or such... with the refugium soft plumbed to
this... the substrate in the trash can and refugium>
Could I use 20gallon home depot buckets with saltwater aerate and
heat. but cover without any lighting?
<Yes>
Any suggestions you have would be appreciated. thanks. Shawn.
<Good luck, with planning and friends' help on your move. Bob Fenner>
Live Rock Turning Brown 9/21/06
Hey guys just a few questions that I couldn't find the answer to
on your site..
I got some live rock in my new marine tank the other day and that’s
as far as I'm going just a fish only aquarium with live rock. I have
an actinic blue bulb in a normal fish tank light and a compact T5
bulb as well. I have been running these 10 to 14 hours a day and my
live rock has started to go a browny colour and I know its because
of the light because where the live rock is shadowed and doesn't get
any light its still the same colour as when I bought it. Is this
because of too much lighting? Or just a stage it goes through or
what? If you could answer that it would be great.. Thanks
<Most likely something that will cycle out, as long as you keep you
water quality at a high level. In the future please spell check you
queries before sending, it takes a lot of time to correct before we
post them.>
<Chris>
Adding New Live Rock - 09/12/06
Hi Bob,
<<EricR here today>>
I was hoping you could help me with this tricky issue (well, for me
it is anyway).
<<I'll try>>
I have an 8' x 2' x 2' tank and have recently placed my old 3ft
tank next to the sump which will act as a refugium filled with live
rock and a DSB.
<<Excellent>>
The 3ft tank is not connected to the main system yet, although it
has been filled, and has been running with an AquaClear hang-on
filter and air stone, heater. There is no live rock or sand in the
3ft tank as yet but I am expecting delivery of the rock shortly.
<<Cool! Receiving/inspecting fresh live rock and witnessing the
life thereon (and therein) is such a blast>>
My question is this: since the 3ft tank (150L) contains more than
twice the amount of water of my regular 5% water changes in the main
tank, I would like to know if still need to conduct a water change
in the week that I connect the 3ft tank to the main system?
<<Hmm...won't hurt either way mate>>
I understand this will dilute the concentration of nitrates in the
main system, but I was also thinking whether a water change, in
addition to the new water in the 3ft being added to the system would
cause too much stress for the inhabitants of the main
tank?
<<No, not in my opinion...you would still be changing out less than
20% the total volume. Not harmful at all...and would definitely be
beneficial>>
The system is FOWLR and contains a baby Epaulette Shark, Masked
Stingray, Sailfin Tang and Flagtail Cod.
<<Mmm...I'm thinking this tank will be too small for the shark and
the stingray at maturity>>
Also, given that the live rock I am purchasing may not be completely
cured (a week of curing so far) I was thinking that I should place
them in the 3ft tank and not connect this to the main system until
ammonia readings are zero.
<<Probably wise. Unless it has been setting in a dealer's tank for
some weeks, most newly acquired "cured" live rock is ever really
so>>
The thing is I don't have a protein skimmer in the 3ft tank, just a
large one for the main tank in the sump. Would it be ok to connect
the 3ft tank as soon as I receive the live rock, and let the main
skimmer take care of it?
<<Since this is a relatively small amount of new rock being added to
a large system, and assuming there is some rock/substrate already in
the main display, yes it would likely be fine. But do keep a close
check on water parameters and be ready/have a plan if necessary>>
If you have any other suggestions, I'd love to hear them.
Thanks for the time with this rather long question.
<<Quite welcome>>
Regards,
Joe
SYDNEY, Aus.
<<Be chatting. EricR...Columbia, SC>>
Using Old Rock/Drilling Bulkheads - 08/27/06
Hey guys,
<<Hello (but don't forget the very capable ladies here as well)>>
Thanks again for your time and dedication to our hobby!
<<Is an honor/pleasure to help>>
I have 2 issues I need help with:
<<Alrighty>>
First, I have read thru the LR section in depth and could not find an exact
match to my problem. I recently purchased a used, and neglected 120 gallon that
housed a single clown grouper with several large pieces of rock (it was a FO
with rock??).
<<Indeed...that would be a FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock)>>
I have kept the rock wet for a few days and can see a few small life forms on it
(actual moving little white/clear bug things).
<<Amphipods...probably>>
The rock looks terrible as the tank was neglected and the rock is all dark brown
and black. I will be setting this tank up as a FOWLR and I am thinking that I
would like to start over with the rock. Letting it dry and cleaning it somehow
and then letting it cure in the tank for a month or two before adding new fish
(pending testing results).
<<Mmm...letting the rock "dry out" will negate its benefits...why not simply
keep the rock as it is? If the color is an issue, it will likely change with
improved water quality/lighting>>
Can I get the rock to look better?
<<Depends on what you consider is "better">>
Is it worth losing whatever life it has on it?
<<Not in my opinion>>
It was not really a traditional live rock,
<<...???>>
it has life but it looks very bad. They are great sized pieces. The substrate
is crushed coral, I would like to reuse it. It also has black and brown
staining on it.
<<This is most likely forms of algae, and will "change" with changes to the
environment, as stated>>
Can this also be cleaned? If so how?
<<Swirling/rinsing with clean saltwater will do the least damage, though you
will still loose some biota>>
I don't mind starting over on the rock but will my cleaning methods effect any
future fish or possible changes to inverts/coral down the road if I go that
direction?
<<Indeed it will...you could give the rock a rinse and a "light" brushing with a
soft-bristle brush, or replace it (entirely or in portions) with fresh live
rock>>
Second, the tank is a traditional (non RR) tank. It came with a sump/wet-dry
and a HOT overflow. I am weary of the overflow as I hear that they will
eventually fail.
<<Is a good chance, yes...but this risk can be lessened a great deal by
employing a redundant system (two siphon overflow boxes) with the first>>
I have once again read on WWM about tank drilling and am thoroughly confused by
all the different opinions and issues.
<<Let's see if I can help un-confuse you>>
I would like to drill the rear for 2 sump supplies and 2 sump returns. Where
exactly (how far down and over/apart) do you recommend?
<<Well, if you've established the back glass in non-tempered, I recommend you
place the throughputs the width of the hole-to-be-drilled from the edges of the
tank, and no closer re to any other throughputs...clear as mud? For example...a
heavy duty 1.5" bulkhead requires a 2.6" hole...the edge of the hole should be
no closer than 2.6" from any edge of the tank, or from any edge of another
bulkhead hole. Adjustment of water height in the tank can be accomplished with
elbows to raise the level of the pipe outside the tank, or used as adjustable
"overflows" within the tank>>
Also what size is best for this size tank if I use a strainer for the supplies
down and a directional elbow for the return up?
<<Two 1.5" bulkheads for the drains, and one or two .75" or 1" bulkheads for the
returns...or you can simply plumb the returns over the back/ends of the tank>>
Should both the supply and the return have a T installed before the sump?
<<For what purpose?...in what configuration?>>
Also, are there and tips for drilling?
<<Indeed, yes...have a read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/pbholesfaqs.htm
>>
I have seen a tank drilled before and they used cooking oil for the lubricant
while cutting? Is this OK?
<<I've always just used water for lubricating the drill bit...works well and is
easy to clean up>>
I plan on ordering the needed bits online, any recommended sources?
<<Several choices about...I bought my last bit here:
http://www.diamond-drill-bit-and-tool.com/Diamond-Drill/MAIN.htm >>
Any tips?
<<Heat is your enemy...follow the recommended rotation speed for the size core
drill bit used. The manufacturer states these bits can be used "dry", but use
of a lubricant (water) will keep heat down, greatly extend the life of the bit,
and speed the drilling process...I use simple 'Play-Dough' to create a "damn"
around the area to be drilled and fill/refill with water as needed while
drilling. Also, when possible, use of a drill-press or drill-jig to keep the
bit vertical to the glass surface will lessen the chance of damage/fracture of
the panel>>
Thanks once again for your help and contribution to our obsession!!!
Randy
<<Quite welcome. Regards, EricR>>
Ruined live rock (?) 7/14/06
Good afternoon WWM crew,
<Now the AM! Tempus fugit for shore>
I'm very new as a marine aquarium hobbyist. I'm sure I have made plenty of
mistakes already.
<You'll have to get way behind me in a very long line....>
I refer to your site daily. This saltwater aquarium was my wife's idea, I
enthusiastically agreed. Now I'm not so sure it's not going to be the reason
for a divorce.
<Yeeikes! I don't like that>
For a few weeks, I was accused of talking to another woman on the computer . . .
while most of the time I was reading posts on your site.
<Heeeee! More educational at least!>
I've searched FAQ's for this and can't seem to find exactly what I'm looking
for, but in the process have read many of things that make me think I have
done things so wrong, I may have ruined my live rock.
<Let's see>
My set up is a 72 gallon bow front FOWLR. I originally set it up with live
sand, live rock (about 50lbs), external hang on filter (penguin bio-wheel),
canister filter (Fluval 404), I do have a protein skimmer, heater, etc. right
now my water parameters are: salinity 1.022, ph 8.3, nitrates 0, ammonia 0,
nitrates - less than 20ppm. I'm not sure if I've left anything out. My biggest
concern is my light . . . single strip fluorescent with a 40w GE Spectra Ray
Full Spectrum lamp.
<Ooooh, you need a bunch more lumens/intensity than this>
I'm about 10 weeks in and my live rock (supposedly pre-cured) doesn't look like
much has grown on it.
<Likely not with this amount of illumination>
I have quite a bit of dark maroon crusty looking coloration,
<Likely BGA... opportunistic... hopefully transitory>
very little green algae and some small spots of a turquoise growth. Is this
rock ruined?
<Mmm... not likely>
Is there anything I can do to salvage it?
<Yes... add more light mostly... But I would be checking a few aspects of water
quality, principally biomineral (e.g. Calcium) and alkalinity... and bolstering
these... Oh, and I'd raise your spg to NSW strength (1.025)>
Should I remove it all and get new live rock and start off the right way.
<Nah, I wouldn't>
Regardless, I'm sure I need to upgrade my lighting. Can you recommend a fixture
for me.
<See WWM re... you can search even for "bowfront" or "72 gallon bowfront"... Or
take the time (when the spouse is not about) to read through here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/setup/lighting/fixtures.htm
and as much of the linked files above till you have a good idea of what your
options are here>
I don't plan to add anything in the way of corals, etc. any time soon.
Right now my livestock consist of:
2 small clowns
1 sailfin tang
1 coral beauty
1 bi-color angel
Any help you can offer will be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks in advance for
your help
Mike Naughton
<Bob Fenner>
Rinsing Live Rock - 07/11/06
Thanks in advance! So much good information here!
<<Glad you think so!>>
Short version of story: friend rinses off live rock, leaves it in freshwater for
three weeks, as a favor. Really.
<<Mmm...>>
Question: any chance that the coralline algae will survive??
<<I doubt "anything" survived>>
Thanks,
Mark
<<Regards, EricR>>
Smelly Live Rock (No Longer "Live") - 06/01/06
Greetings,
<<Good morning>>
I have a friend who has given me about 40lbs of rock out of his tank. Lucky
Me! The question that I have is, my tank is currently cycling with an order of
rock from Live Aquaria. I was going to just take his rock and place it in my
tank, but he has left it out of the tank for almost two weeks and the smell is
quite awful.
<<Mmm, not so "lucky" after all. This rock will have to be cleaned/cured before
it is of any use...and then it will be mostly devoid of life/no longer "live"
rock>>
His tank had been neglected and had a serious hair algae problem. Should I just
allow this rock to die off before placing it in my tank? I don't have the space
to cycle it anywhere else and don't want to introduce anything that I am going
to regret later.
<<Then about your only choice is to dump this rock or give it to someone with
the facility to clean it up>>
I was leaning more towards letting it die off since my tank already has about
50lbs in it. 90 gallon by the way!
<<Personally, I wouldn't use this rock>>
One more question!
<<sure>>
Before moving my system I had 4*96watt PC's with a tank full of softies. I sold
all of my livestock due to a long move.
<<Wise>>
I just purchased a 250w halide retrofit with a 10k. Would you suggest using all
4 PC's or just 2 Actinics? I'm ready for LPS and maybe a clam or two.
<<The latter will work fine. EricR>>
Live rock and possible copper exposure - 05/16/2006
Good Day <Hello Robert - Tim answering your question today!>,
About a month ago I purchased some used live rock (100lbs) from a
system that was being parted out. Very nice looking Fiji rock and while it was
in QT I noticed a rampant Aiptasia infestation. After several weeks of trying
to eradicate these pests I gave up and decided to turn the rock into base
rock. A strong scrub in fresh water and two hours in boiling fresh water has
probably killed off everything, even the Aiptasia.
<I would expect so - not necessary the freshwater scrub, but the two hour
boil!>
Now to the question: some sections of the rock was a very dark color going into
the boiling water (almost black), when removed the dark areas had turned a
bright green. The rock is now dry and stored on a rack. The green has faded a
little bit, but is still distinct. Could this be a sign that the rock was
exposed to copper at some time? I hate to think that I have some expensive door
stops.
<Whilst I do not know what it is that you observed, I would assume that it is
most likely some kind of algae that was/is on the rock - copper treatments are
in solution (i.e. liquid compounds) and in any case the levels of copper used
would be far too low to leave deposits visible to the human eye.>
These were to build up a new reef.
<Go ahead with your reef - but be aware that your boiling etc will almost
certainly have killed off any life on the rocks - whilst this may seem
desirable, it does mean that you will almost certainly need to cure the rock.>
Thanks for any feedback
Robert
Heavy Stocking 5/14/06
Hello,
<Hi>
I would like to know if live rock and sand is capable of handling heavy
bioloads.
<Depends on the definition of heavy>
I have read a wet dry is superior when it comes to heavy bioloads.
<Wet/dries are useful in overstocked tanks, unnecessary in properly stocked
tanks>
I guess I'm asking if I go with a powerful skimmer, a sump, live rock, and sand,
if it will be better than a wet dry in regards to heavy bioload. I have
purchased your book and keep rereading it.
Thank you
<LR and a quality skimmer should be able to handle any properly stocked
tank. If you need a wet/dry to keep up with ammonia and nitrite then you should
take a look at your livestock>
<Chris>
Rash from Handling Live Rock (Wear Those
Gloves!) - 05/10/06
I don't know if this e-mail should be addressed to you, "crew," or
otherwise.
<<"Crew" is fine as there is no set protocol on "who" will reply>>
I've seen some info on your site about infections/diseases which can be
caught from an aquarium. About 3 weeks ago (this Thursday), I was
cleaning a new batch of Fiji live rock that I had just received. I
foolishly did not use gloves (which after the fact, I found out was a
good idea).
<<Indeed>>
I was holding each piece in my left hand, while scrubbing it with a
brush in my right, and then adding it to a garbage can. After I had
finished, my left hand began burning, and I noticed little spines
sticking out of my hands...
<<Mmm...>>
This reminded me of getting fiberglass on my hand.
<<Very similar, but with a twist...the spines may have carried a
venom. It sounds like you came in contact with a/several large bristle
worms while cleaning/handling the rock>>
These spines were very thin, and appeared to be clear. I removed what I
could find with tweezers, but I could tell that a couple were still
there.
<<Yes, very difficult to remove this way as most will fragment leaving
behind the embedded portion in your skin...though these usually dissolve
away within a couple/few days>>
About 2 days ago, I have developed a rash on my left hand.
<<Possibly an infection...different folks react/have differing levels of
sensitivity to these "stings">>
It is red, blotchy, and slightly bumpy, and it itches. The two
incidents may be completely unrelated,
<<Not likely>>
and I am going to see a doctor tomorrow about this; however, if he is
unfamiliar with the hobby and the "glass spines" are the cause, he may
not know.
<<This is true>>
If you have any thoughts as to what this rash may be, please let me
know.
<<I'm fairly certain your rash is a reaction to contact with bristle
worms. Do a Google search on our site/the NET re "bristle worms" to arm
yourself with some information to pass on to the doctor>>
Thanks for your help.
<<Regards, EricR>>
Salvaging "Old" Live Rock - 04/16/06
Howdy,
<Hi there! Scott F. with you today!>
Got a question concerning live rock that's been stored for about 2 years in a
Rubbermaid container. A buddy offloaded some live rock on me that he's had in
his basement for 2 years in a closed container with no fish (but kept a 802
powerhead in the container for circulation). I'm concerned about putting this
rock in my main FO tank.
<As well you should be with anything added to your system! Good attribute to
have- paranoia!>
I've been trying to cycle it in a 29gal (some of it anyway, it'll fully load a
55gal to the rim) for the past 6 months, even tried a refugium on the tank with
Chaetomorpha and a 50w daylight floodlight a friend recommended. Nitrates shoot
thru the roof 80ppm + (with water changes it drops 20ppm. but within a few days
it's back to before I did anything), also get Cyano growing like weeds. I even
tried putting a clown in the tank (poor little guy) hoping that maybe with a
small bioload the organisms would start to grow and take care of the nitrate
(clean cycle of course).
<Not a bad thought, I guess.>
Can't be the water I'm using, only use R/O water (and change the filters on it
as recommended). So I'm guessing it comes down to the rock itself. Should I kill
off the rock (bleach and dry) and start from scratch with a small piece of good
LR? Or go get a small piece of good rock and add it to the bad in hopes that
it'll re-seed what this rock is missing?
<Well, there are a lot of theories about phosphate/nitrate accumulation
occurring within live rock, and some of them probably have validity. This is the
"theory" behind the concept of "rock cooking" that you'll hear a number of
hobbyists discuss on various hobby message boards. The thought is that by
leaving the rock in a closed dark container for extended periods of time, you'll
kill of undesirable algae (duh) and give the rock time to "leach out" trapped
detritus and organics. I suppose there is some validity to this practice,
although I've never subscribed to it. The fact that your rock, which has been
"cooking" for years, is a possible source of organics seems to contradict this
theory, however. Hmm. I suppose that you could either place this rock into a
much higher flow/light environment to see what happens, or you could "nuke" it
with bleach and start over with truly "dead" rock that is devoid of all life,
microbial or otherwise. If it were me, I'd try to work with it in a more
conventional reef tank setting first before giving up on it.>
There's no odor from the rock I have, it's teaming with bristleworms and
MiniStars, but I can save some of them from the sand and just dip the rock to
get what Ii can out of 'em if I have to bleach.
<I'd really try to avoid the bleaching, if at all possible.>
Also, the main tank has a 3 inch sand bed (sugar sized and the sump has a 5 in)
could part of the problem be lack of sand turning?
<I doubt it. It could be an issue of the sandbed being excessively disturbed,
for that matter, or even an exhausted RO/DI cartridge (do check your source
water for nitrate and phosphate before use, just to make sure. Aggressive
nutrient export (protein skimming, sue of water changes and chemical filtration
media, such as activated carbon or PolyFilter) can also help you salvage this
rock for future use without resorting to the "nuclear" option!>
If so, would trying a fresh cycle with a goby to shift the sand that's already
there maybe help? that's the only other thing I could think of that might fix
the problem (but afraid that if the bed is established it'll cause trouble in
the layers)
John
<Agreed, John. Try the nutrient export approach first. Good luck! Regards, Scott
F.>
Live Rock/Benefits 4/10/06
Dear all at WWM, <Hello Francis>
Thanks for such a wonderful resource. <You're welcome.> I recently returned to
the hobby after taking a few years off for school, etc. and set up a fish only
tank using the "dinosaur" methods that have worked well for me in the past. I
have a 35 gallon hex (not the best choice of dimensions for a myriad of reasons,
but due to space constraints...) outfitted with a Fluval 204, an old Whisper
WDF3000 (extinct, I believe) and a mini Fluval 1 situated just above a 2" layer
of crushed coral substrate for improved flow in the lower column. I have
various types of coral skeletons for sanctuary and buffering. I have two
damsels and recently added a coral beauty, who seemingly enjoys foraging
about. After eight weeks, the system is at 0 ppm NH3/0 ppm NO2/10 ppm NO3. I
know that the filtration methods used here is asking for high nitrates, but will
be sure to keep mechanical media clean of excess debris to help control
this. <Yes, changing/cleaning weekly will help very much.> The tank is
currently in a bloom, with amphipods or copepods appearing in suspension and on
the glass. <A good note.>
After reading the various posts on the benefits of LR, I am interested in
introducing some in my tank. I figure this would be a good strategy to improve
the tank's fish holding capacity by offering increased filtration and additional
structure in the water column for sanctuary. I intend to build the LR atop of
the coral skeletons in the center of the tank to avoid compromising water
circulation and to situate them closer to the light source (50/50, 15
watt). <Your lighting is weak for sustaining/growing the coralline present on
the rock.> How much LR do you suggest adding at a time? <Add the full amount
you intend to use providing it is fully cured.> The local stores have LR that is
already cured, which I presume can be added to the system as is. <Yes, do smell
the rock before purchasing to insure of no rotten egg smell.> I was thinking of
transporting the LR in a bucket of tank water to limit any chance of the outer
layer dying back and causing a lethal spike when placed in the tank. Any
suggestions on this? <Depending on how far you live from the LFS, it may not be
necessary to use the bucket. Most stores will wrap the rock in wet newspaper
which should be fine for a 20-30 minute trip. "Cured" live rock is shipped that
way but there is always some die off in the two day trip.>
P.S. As a nitro-bactor fan, I was disappointed to hear the news of
nitro-Spira. Oh well. LOL
Best regards and thanks in advance. <You're welcome, and thank you for writing
so well. It is nice to answer a query where no editing is required.
James (Salty Dog)>
Frank
Queens, NY
Online vendors part2 3/30/06
Thanks a bunch AdamC. It does help. One remaining question on this. You
wrote that 'pre-cured' live rock can often times mean less life on the rock when
you get it...if I cure 'uncured' or 'raw' rock myself, won't a lot/most of the
life on it die off during the cure or sitting in the box? If not, why would the
life disappear when the vendors cure it? Thanks again, and for letting me know
about yesterday's message. You guys/gals are awesome! Eric B.
<<Sorry for the confusion... there is much confusion about the terms
"cured/curing" vs. "cycled/cycling" and also much inconsistency in how rock is
handled. Due to complaints about smell, appearance and the work involved in
handling "raw" rock, most live rock collectors have taken to "curing" rock
before shipping. This process involves hand stripping all of the sponges, macro
algae, etc. from the rock and then often literally scrubbing or power-washing it
before packing. It is true that if left on the rock, much of this material
would die, but at least something would be left to have a chance! Also, the
process of "curing" or more accurately "cycling" new live rock when you receive
it should include aggressive water changes, attention to water quality and
frequent inspection to remove dead things before they decay. These measures
ensure maximal survival of all of that life that you pay so much money for.
Many vendors (online and local) will unpack live rock when the receive it and
begin the cycling process for you. While this saves you time and effort, it
will come at the expense of life if your dealer is less than conscientious in
how they handle the rock. My personal preference is to receive directly
transshipped "raw" rock and cure/cycle it myself. However this is a lot of work
and there is a risk of dealing with a bit of bad odor. Hope this helps. Best
Regards. AdamC.>
Loss Of Life In Live Rock - 03/17/2006
Hey WWM,
<Hello John.>
First Off, you guys are GREAT!
<Aww shucks...Thanks.>
I bought 100 pounds of Walt Smith Fiji rock and started to cycle my tank
on the 24 of February. It is day 21 [cycle], last week I went to my LFS
with a water sample because it looked like my rock has cycled as of last
week, 0-Ammonia / 0- Nitrite / 20-Nitrate / PH-8.2 /CA-450 / Temp 78.5
steady.
<Sounds fine.>
Well, he stated it was fine so I added 2- sand anemones, 2-soft corals,
<These two won't be happy together.>
1- Percula clown. My lighting which I am running on a timer is a nova
extreme [216 watts total] and 1 twin t5 [108 watts] for 12 hours a day.
Within the past 3 days all my coralline has turned white.
<Happens.>
I have attached a picture, if you can possibly take a look and tell me
what you think. Will it come back or do I have $400.00 worth of base
rock now. Please Help
<You'll be fine here. This happens often and as long as you do your part
(keep up the water quality/changes, regular lighting schedule) thinks
will "spring up" in time. Think of it like watching a really long,
silent movie.>
Thanks for all the help
John
<You're welcome John. - Josh> |
|
 |
Live Rock/FAQ's 3/14/06
I am picking up some premium Fiji rock tomorrow from another
hobbyist...150lbs that was in a long established tank......It is going in my 110
gallon new tank......I have not filled up tank yet, as my RO feed line was too
short and need to pick it up tonight........longer section.....
Seeing that the rock is cured can dechlorinated tap water be used <Yes.> and
later do several water changes over the course of a couple weeks using the
RO/DI......I wanted to do a test run with fresh water first <I'm assuming not
with the live rock?> to make sure no leaks in plumbing....also, at 1000 gpd out
of the RO, I do not have enough time to get the tank full to accept the rock,. I
must pick it up from other hobbyist ASAP....It is nice coralline covered rock
and has some mushrooms on it. <I'd let this new saltwater mix in the tank for
at least a day before I'd add the rock. Can he wait a day? James (Salty Dog)>
When Life Gives You Lemons... 03/9/06
Hello.
<Hi there! Scott F. here today!>
I recently purchase a 55 gallon marine aquarium that had around 20 pounds of
live rock. All of the live rock was covered with Aiptasia anemones. I tried
tweezers to pull them off and was hardly successful so I tried injecting lemon
juice in the Aiptasia mouths and only managed to kill a few. Then I got
Desperate and I had put all the live rock in a 20 gallon that was already 1/3
full of water and I dumped the rest of the lemon juice bottle. Which
was nearly full. I had the live rock soaking in the tank for about
20 minutes twice and I was wondering if this had ruined the live rock? Note
that almost all the Aiptasia survived. I noticed also that some of the bristle
or Fireworms had fallen out dead but there were still some left when I looked
that
night. So basically I was just wondering if the live rock was wasted or useless
now. I still have an equal amount from the previous marine tank I had that has
not been soaked in lemon juice.
Thanks, Riley
<Well, Riley, I'm sure that some life was lost on the rock, but if the Aiptasia
survived the citrus plunge, there is a definite chance that the more desirable
stuff survived, too. At the worst, the rock can be re-used, and will "colonize"
with new life over time. I say, use it! Good Luck! Regards, Scott F.>
Live Rock & Base Rock - 3/5/2006
Hi crew,
<<Hi Brian.>>
I have a 55-gallon FOWLR tank that I am starting to get up and running. My
problem is I really don't want to spend any where from three hundred to five
hundred dollars on live rock. Can I use just some regular chunks of rock to
build up a base and then put the live rock on top of that?
<<Sure you can, so long as the material used is suitable for use in
aquaria. The other rock will become live’ in time.>>
I want it to look like a lot with out spending a lot. I have seen at my LFS that
I can buy base rock from them, but is not much cheaper than the live rock. Any
thoughts on what I should do would help out, thanks in advance.
<<Perhaps search for cheaper base rock online, or at another retailer. I see no
problem with this plan. Have fun! Lisa>>
Brian
Marine Set Up/Live Rock/Sand - 3/1/2006
Hey WWM, <Hey Johnny> You guy's have helped me a lot in the past and was
wondering if you can bail me out a little more. <Will try> I'm in my 6th day of
cycle [100 lbs live rock 20 lbs LS ]. I removed the bio balls from my pro clear
150 wet/dry from the get-go. And put about 5 lbs of live rock in the "now'
sump...not that big [should I put more LR in there?]. <No real need to.> I keep
reading about DSB in the sump but with my wet/dry I have that blue sponge and
I'm wondering how I would change it out without all the sand going into the
return pump area...or just leave live rock with no sand? <I’d just use the live
rock.> I am also lighting the sump with the Coralife [2] 9watt marine mini
light. <I wouldn’t have any lights on until this tank is cycled, at least 28
days. Nutrients will be high and you will be inviting a nuisance algae bloom.>
The incoming water into the sump [live rock area] is very turbulent, will this
be O.K for the live rock? <No problems.> just worried that it will be too rough
to put anything else in that area. Please help me out with some advice. Thanks
for all the help. <Johnny, in future queries please do a spelling/grammar
check. We just don't have the time to edit queries before posting. Thank
you. James (Salty Dog)>
Johnny
Live Rock or Not?- 2/18/2006
Dear Lisa,
<<Hey Elise.>>
Please ignore my last email; I should have researched live rock first before
asking you questions.
<<Good stuff!>>
I've read about quarantining and curing it and all that, so my new question is,
can I just get a small piece?
<<You could, but I would recommend you get more than a small piece, especially
if you want an angel.>>
Is adding calcium a must?
<<Not at all.>>
I've already decorated the tank with fake stuff and I don't really want to spend
a tonne more money.
<<You can incorporate all of your 'fake' decorations in with some live rock.>>
I would be inclined to skip it completely, but I do want a dwarf angel at some
point and I want it to do well.
<<I personally would never have a FO tank; I feel that live rock is just too
good for bio-filtering and bio-diversity in a SW tank to pass up. If money is
an issue here, you can always buy-cure-add the live rock in stages, not all at
once. This may be a good idea considering that your tank should be set up for
some time before adding an angel.>> Thanks again!
<<You are very welcome. Hope it helps! Lisa.>>
| |
|
