How to Dry Live Rock

Live rock is used in saltwater aquariums to help sustain life in the aquarium by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and small animals. When the rock is dried, the life found on the rock usually dies out as well. Once dried, the rock is used in aquariums or placed anywhere the owner prefers to place the rock. Drying live rock requires letting the rock dry and killing the bacteria and other growth on the rock.

Things You'll Need

  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the live rock from its saltwater source. Set it out until the water has completely dried and the plant life attached to the live rock is flaking off or crusty.

    • 2

      Rinse the live rock with plain tap water. Remove any plant life, flakes or crustiness from the rock. Use a hand to scrub away the worst of the grime, but be careful not to damage the live rock while removing dirt. If it seems fragile, just rinse with water until the water does not remove more grime.

    • 3

      Set it out in the sun and allow the rock to dry. Move it onto its side and rotate it every hour or so to dry all of the sides of the rock. Check it after a few hours for moisture. If moisture remains, keep it in the sun for another hour or so. If the moisture has dried up completely, bring the rock inside. For best results in killing bacteria and other live creatures, avoid putting the rock into water for a few days so that the more hardy plant life and bacteria are unable to thrive.