questions about propagating coral

[BH Aquatic Center]

I have a coral that has a few stems on it. I really like it. I would like to cut one of the stems, and place it in another spot in the tank. Do I cut it at the base where it connects to the plug? I've watched numerous YouTube videos, and they show using super glue to attach to a piece of live rock. I'm worried about putting super glue in my aquarium, not to mention hurting the coral.

 

[DTECH07]

Would you post a picture, it would assist greatly

 

[user 26995]

What type of coral? Sounds like your talking about SPS. You can cut it anywhere you like. The coral will grow over the cut area. The piece you cut off, yes you can glue it to a place in your tank that is appropriate for it with super glue. Super glue GEL has been used by many people for a long time. It will not hurt anything in the tank. Unless of course you fill the mouth of the coral with it or cover the coral in it.

Put a dab on the end of the coral, dip it in the water so a film forms over the glue, repeat that 3 or 4 times. Then place the coral on the rock that you want it attached to and rub it around to break that film. The glue will start adhearing to the rock. you can then hold the coral down firmly for a few more second, depending on how long it takes for the glue to set up some and it should be good to let it go.

 

[user 26995]

You can also cut the stem off the plug and glue the disc down to your rock. The coral will cover the plug disc over time.

 

[DTECH07]

You can use either Photobucket or Pacasa by google. Upload your photo to either program then copy the URL of the photo to Reeffrontiers using the option in this message box third from the end. Confusing for sure or you could upload from your desk top and we can open.
Coral Magazine had a article that when fragging corals that a 1" or small had only a 50% and lower of suvivability unless moving in tank which increases to 60%, while frags that are 2" and large suvivability increases to 90-96% if left in the same tank or not.
The idea of moving corals that you like to different locations in your tank is a wise thought it can prevent the chance of losing the entire coral if something goes wrong and you can see where the coral may do best at quicker.
When I frag my pieces if there small I leave as much in the tank and have just the end I'm glueing out the water, corals are tough but when I'm dealing with a frag that's a 1/2" to 1/8" that's how I approach it. A 1" or bigger I prep my plug and glue then and keep my coral out the tank no longer that 5min.
Hope this helps and welcome.

 

[BH Aquatic Center]

Thank You!!! This will be my first attempt, so I am really nervous about killing anything.
DTECH07, I would love to post pics, and as soon as I learn how, I will.
IPisces, I don't know what type of coral it is. When I bought it at the store, it was classified as misc. coral. And I didn't know the coral will cover the disc. I am def. going to cut the stem off the plug now.
On another note, does anyone recommend a site to order corals? I currently have a 27 gallon, but I will probably be going bigger soon.
Thanks

 

[mfinn]

You really should do a little research on corals and fish before you buy.
Impulse buying can lead to the death of corals or fish.

 

[user 26995]

It would be nice to know what kind of coral it is. If your not sure what it is, a picture would help. Or a good description of it. If it is a soft coral like a leather, your not going to be able to glue it. I am assuming though that it is a hard coral. If it is fresh glued to the plug, you may be able to just pop it off.

 

[kpiotrowski]

try to get involved with local reefers is the best way to aquire coral at a good price...and knowledge too!

 

[DTECH07]

What part of PA are you in? Are you anywhere near Landcasters?

 

[BH Aquatic Center]

What part of PA are you in? Are you anywhere near Landcasters?

Pittsburgh.. I've found two really good Aquarium stores. Elmer's & Wet Pets, but neither one is local. I am surrounded by the major pet stores, PetSmart, Petco etc.

 

[DTECH07]

That fish place That pet place is the name of the warehouse. I've order online and purchase in store (when visiting my enlaws in Phily) and they have a great selection, good prices, and very friendly.
If your ever in that direction here's the info and they have a website

Phone Number: 888-842-8738 (Toll free in the United States and Canada otherwise contact us by calling 717-299-5691)
Mailing Address 237 Centerville Rd. Lancaster, PA 17603