What is Live Rock?

So you've probably heard about this live rock stuff. But what is it? and why would I want it?

What kind of rock is LIVE ROCK?
LIVE ROCK is typically volcano rock taken from the ocean. It comes in different sizes, shapes and from different locations. Popular locations include Fiji, Tonga, Pukani, and Totoka.

Can I go to the Hardware store and buy Lava Rock?
The type of LIVE ROCK we are talking about is different than the lava rock from the hardware store. Theoretically, you could use the red lava rock from the hardware store, but it may leach out hard metals into your water that would be harmful to fish and corals.

What makes LIVE ROCK live?
LIVE ROCK doesn't actually move. It's the living organisms on the rock that make it alive. The majority of LIVE ROCK is covered with bacteria, algaes, sea grasses, tube worms, shells and other living organisms.

Can I take dried up live rock and turn it into LIVE ROCK?
Yes, you can take dry base rock and turn it into LIVE ROCK. It will only take a few days for the bacteria to colonize on the rock. You will also need to add some exisiting CURED LIVE ROCK to the base to start growing different coraline (good) algaes, copepods, amphipods and other organisms. So in theory, your LIVE ROCK can be more alive than other live rock.

What is the different between CURED LIVE ROCK and UNCURED LIVE ROCK.
UNCURED LIVE ROCK comes straight from the ocean and typically has many different sponges and algaes that die off in the home aquarium. When these organisms die they release ammonia which pollutes an aquarium. It typically takes about 1 month to turn UNCURED LIVE ROCK into CURED LIVE ROCK. CURED LIVE ROCK is LIVE ROCK that no longer has the die off. This rock is generally safe to add to an established aquarium, whereas UNCURED LIVE ROCK is not.

When is it best to use UNCURED LIVE ROCK?
It is best to use this rock when you would like to save money, have plenty of time, and a new aquarium. UNCURED LIVE ROCK is about half the price of CURED LIVE ROCK. To cure LIVE ROCK you will need an aquarium or rubbermaid container, a heater, a large powerhead and a protein skimmer. Perform 50% water changes weekly and empty the protein skimmer as needed. Strong water flow will help the rock cure quicker.

How much LIVE ROCK do I need?
The typical rule is 1 lb per gallon. A more open look will require .75-1 lbs and a wall type look will require 1-1.5 lbs per gallon. It will also depend on the density of the rock. Florida rock is by far the heaviest and often comes in flat pieces. Fiji and Tonga are less dense, and Totoka and Pukani are the lightest.

What does LIVE ROCK do?
LIVE ROCK provides beneficial bacteria to help break down waste and nitrate. It also provides caves for different micro-organisms to grow, as well as for fish to hide it. It can also be aquascaped to create interesting underwater structure. Finally it is a place to attach corals and anemones.

What type of LIVE ROCK do you recommend?
We recommend a mix of different LIVE ROCK. Using larger denser pieces towards the bottom of structures will provide a strong base (Fiji, Kaelini). Then start adding more porus and interestingly shaped pieces like (Pukani, Tonga) from the middle and top. I would personally avoid Florida LIVE ROCK as it has a tendency to have high die off during the curing process, is extremely dense, most of the pieces are flat, and it is often with pests like mantis shrimp and hairy gorilla crabs.

Where to buy LIVE ROCK in Minnesota?
In Minnesota it's typical to see CURED LIVE ROCK around $8-10 per lb and UNCURED LIVE ROCK from $4-8 per lb. At Discovery Aquatics in Anoka (763-221-2666), we carry CURED Pukani LIVE ROCK and Fiji LIVE ROCK for $3.99 lb.