Mike
Great question this should become a sticky!!
Best advise is quarantine.
If That is not available observing the Coral at the LFS is very important - ask staff to show you underneath and around the coral. By doing this you can see if there are any pests, how well it is attached to its plug, and if the core is colored and healthy. I have had many customers ask me to pull the coral out so they could smell them. (SWEET CORN).
I have Also found a higher than normal mortality rate with FW dips.
A system I use for myself and my home tanks is coral observation(as above), and usually the new coral water temp is 5 or so C lower than your tank and after floating the bag for a bit and the temp is equal if there are flatworms or red bugs with the warmth you will easily see movement on the coral under close observation.
There are safe SPS dips I sell at the store but unfortunately I have not had the pleasure.
Great topic Mike I can't wait to hear Greg (snappy) and a few others chime in.
Kevin
|