How long for LR/Corals out of water?

whatcaneyedo · #1 01-14-2010, 05:04 PM

The coral will be absolutely fine out of water for much longer than the live rock. Several authors have talked about the ability to ship many coral moist without water because they secrete a mucus layer meant to keep them alive during low tides. My concern for the rock is that you could have a lot of sponge growth on it that will not fare well out of water for very long. When its returned to the water, brisk water movement and good skimming will be necessary to remove the slime that the coral shed so that it doesnt pollute the system. Mushrooms and polyps are especially tough... they're the stuff that commonly survives on liverock to hitch hike its way into our tanks. Conservatively I'd estimate over an hour for the coral.

That sounds extremely heavy by the way. Upwards of around 400 lbs? I think you'd be better off taking lots of pictures and pulling everything out to put into garbage cans or rubbermaid tubs. Or take this opportunity to re-aquascape as well if you're not happy about the way everything is laid out.

banditpowdercoat · #2 01-14-2010, 05:11 PM

Probibally pushing 500Lbs, but nothing beer can't get moved, ie friends. Only have to slide it 2 ft out from wall, then back again.

Thx for confirming what I thought.

Quote:

Originally Posted by whatcaneyedo

The coral will be absolutely fine out of water for much longer than the live rock. Several authors have talked about the ability to ship many coral moist without water because they secrete a mucus layer meant to keep them alive during low tides. My concern for the rock is that you could have a lot of sponge growth on it that will not fare well out of water for very long. When its returned to the water, brisk water movement and good skimming will be necessary to remove the slime that the coral shed so that it doesnt pollute the system. Mushrooms and polyps are especially tough... they're the stuff that commonly survives on liverock to hitch hike its way into our tanks. Conservatively I'd estimate over an hour for the coral.

That sounds extremely heavy by the way. Upwards of around 400 lbs? I think you'd be better off taking lots of pictures and pulling everything out to put into garbage cans or rubbermaid tubs. Or take this opportunity to re-aquascape as well if you're not happy about the way everything is laid out.

H2o2 · #3 01-14-2010, 05:14 PM

Maybe rig up some spray bars to keep rock and sponges wet but not streams maybe cut slots in pvc hooked to maxi jets recirc.water thats left in tank??