How to Propagate Live Rock

Live rock is carpeted with flourishing colonies of brightly colored coralline algae. Live invertebrates, including worms, tunicates, bryozoans and sponges, also live and grow on the surface of the rock. Live rock is often used to seed reef aquaria, creating a base growth to which live corals and anemones are added. Live rock propagation is relatively simple --- you can grow your own live rock in a small amount of space with a few basic supplies. The challenge lies in attaining the proper conditions in the propagation pool for the species you are trying to grow.

Things You'll Need

  • Kiddie swimming pool
  • Aragonite reef sand
  • Salt mix
  • Large saltwater mixing drum or spare pool
  • Aquarium filter
  • Aquarium powerhead pump
  • Aquarium heater
  • Fluorescent two-bulb light fixture with hangers, 2
  • Fluorescent 40-watt bulbs, 4
  • Base rock - aragonite, tufa, lava or aragocrete
  • Live rock, at least a dozen pieces
  • Calcium and trace mineral supplement powders
  • Soft toothbrush
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Instructions

  1. Propagating Live Rock

    • 1

      Mix saltwater from salt mix according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Allow it to sit for 24 hours, stirring occasionally.

    • 2

      Add 2-3 inches of aragonite reef sand to the bottom of the swimming pool. Add saltwater to fill the pool and allow the sand to settle.

    • 3

      Install the aquarium filter and water heater. Set the heater to maintain the temperature at 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 4

      Place the aquarium powerhead into the pool and experiment with placement until you find a location that provides maximum water flow. For example, try placing the powerhead halfway between the center and edge of the pool so the flow is parallel to the pool edge.

    • 5

      Spread live rocks evenly around the pool, placing them atop the base rock.

    • 6

      Gently scrub a small portion of each live rock to loosen and spread spores throughout the pool. If the live rock hosts several colors of algae, try to scrub a bit of each color.

    • 7

      Install fluorescent lights above the live rock propagation pool.

    • 8

      Alternate adding calcium or trace mineral supplements each week to promote live rock growth.