Rock out of water question
 

How long can I take rock with coral on it out of the water with out damage? I need to do a full rock rebuild after I had a big collapse last night.
Also can I use a styrofoam "cooler" to hold rocks and fish in while I'm cleaning the tank out?

Thanks

I don't know about a time limit but spraying the rock with salt water while it is out of the tank will help. The quicker the better!

I'm figuring 5 to 10 minutes is all it will be out for......

I have kept mine out for at least that long with no problems. As long as it does not dry out is my understanding.

When I received my live rock it was transported in a styrofoam container. It was also covered with newspaper which had been dampened with tank water to keep it moist. I'm sure 10 mins out of the water should be just fine for the live rock. Different corals may react differently to being pulled out of the water for ten mins. Someone else might have to jump in here.
Hope this helped a bit

I wouldnt worry about it unless there are a lot of sponges on the rock.

Many corals are naturally exposed to air for prolonged periods at low tide with no ill effect so 10 minutes should not be a problem.

So the other question is:
I have some large styrofoam coolers. Can I use them to store the water, rocks, corals and fish while I am rebuilding the aquascape?

Are you planning on reusing the water? If so I think you would have to heat it and add
an airstone at least. Hope you get some other answers

How did you make out?