Sarah Brown
Coral keepers often use super glue to attach coral to rocks. Some people recommend using a rubber band to hold the mushroom coral in place, but others have reported that their mushrooms escaped using this method. Super glue can be used, but it is best to take the rock out of the tank first and ensure that the underside of the coral is dry. A blob of glue should then be placed in the centre of the underside of the coral before placing it back in the tank.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can coral glue be used on mushroom corals? | Yes, super glue can be used on mushroom corals. |
| How to use coral glue on mushroom corals? | Clean the underside of the mushroom coral with a tissue or paper towel. Put a blob of glue in the centre of the underside of the mushroom coral. Hold the coral on the rock for 10 seconds or so and put the rock back in the tank. |
| Alternative methods to glue | Rubber bands can be used to secure mushroom corals to rocks. |
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What You'll Learn
Using super glue on mushroom corals
When applying super glue to mushroom corals, it is best to work outside of the tank. Remove the coral from the water and dry the underside with a tissue or paper towel. Apply a generous amount of super glue gel to the centre of the coral's underside. Then, place the coral on the desired surface and hold it in place for at least 15-30 seconds. Some people even suggest holding it for a full minute to ensure a strong bond.
It is important to note that while super glue can work, there are also specific coral glues and putties designed for this purpose. These products may be worth considering as they are formulated specifically for use with corals and may provide a stronger or longer-lasting bond. Additionally, for soft corals like mushrooms, some hobbyists suggest using rubber bands or creating a small DIY box of rock rubble to secure the corals in place without the need for adhesives.
When using super glue, it is always important to follow safety precautions. Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the fumes. Keep the super glue away from children and pets, and always read the instructions on the packaging before use. Additionally, be cautious when introducing glued corals back into the aquarium, as you want to avoid getting super glue in the water, which could harm the aquatic life.
Overall, super glue can be an effective way to attach mushroom corals to surfaces in an aquarium, but it should be used with caution and consideration of alternative methods. It is always a good idea to research different options and choose the one that best suits your specific needs and preferences.
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Using epoxy on mushroom corals
Preparing the Mushroom Coral:
Before using epoxy, it's important to prepare the mushroom coral and its placement. One method is to place the mushroom coral in a small container with crushed coral or small bits of rock rubble in a low-flow area of your tank. Covering the mushroom with lightweight mesh can also help hold it in place. This setup allows the mushroom to attach itself to the rubble, providing a more secure base for adhesion.
Using Epoxy and Adhesives:
Once the mushroom has attached to the rubble, you can begin the epoxy process. Apply a dab of super glue to the base of the rubble, then add a generous amount of two-part reef epoxy (pre-mixed) on top of the super glue. Press the coral firmly onto the desired surface, such as a rock or another stable substrate in your tank, and hold it still for 15 to 30 seconds. This technique creates a strong bond between the mushroom coral and its new attachment point.
Alternative Methods:
If you're hesitant to use epoxy directly on the mushroom coral, there are other methods to consider. One approach is to use a plastic frag-to-rock holder, which can be glued to a rock, and then the coral can be glued into the holder. Another method is to cut the base of the frag from the plug and superglue the coral directly to the rock, avoiding the use of epoxy altogether. Rubber bands can also be used to hold the mushroom coral in place until it attaches on its own.
Considerations:
Keep in mind that any cyanoacrylate glue, including super glue gels, will become brittle in saltwater over time. This can be advantageous if you need to reposition your mushroom corals, as they will snap off the rock easily. However, if you're looking for a more permanent solution, Epo Putty is recommended as it won't strip the water of oxygen and provides a stronger hold.
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Drying the mushroom coral before gluing
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials: a soft tissue or paper towel, super glue or gel super glue, and optionally, a small container of water and a clean toothbrush.
Start by gently patting the underside of the mushroom coral dry with a soft tissue or paper towel. It is important to be gentle and careful during this step as mushroom corals are soft and delicate. Remove any excess water from the surface of the coral, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the coral's tissue.
If there is algae or any other residue on the rock that you plan to glue the coral to, use an old toothbrush to gently scrub it off. This step is important because gluing onto algae or residue may cause the glue to lose its grip and come off easily.
Once the coral and the rock surface are both dry and clean, you can begin the gluing process. Place a small blob of super glue or gel super glue in the centre of the underside of the mushroom coral. Hold the coral in place on the rock for at least 10 seconds. You can also follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific drying and curing time of the glue you are using.
If you are using a water-based glue, you can dip the coral in water for a few seconds before gluing. This will help the coral absorb the water it needs and prevent it from drawing water from the glue, which could weaken the bond.
For particularly delicate mushroom corals, or if you are unsure about the type of glue to use, consider using alternative methods such as rubber bands or a DIY box of rock rubble to secure the coral in place until it attaches on its own.
Remember, it is always important to handle mushroom corals and other soft corals with care to avoid causing them stress or damage.
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Using rubber bands on mushroom corals
While some people use super glue or epoxy to attach coral to rocks, rubber bands can also be used to secure mushroom corals. One method involves placing the mushroom coral in a cup with one or two pieces of rubble, then placing a rubber band around the cup to secure it in place. After a day or two, the coral will attach itself to the rubble, and the rubber band can be removed. This method is often used for soft corals like mushrooms, as it is a simple and effective way to secure them without causing damage.
Another technique involves using a rubber band to split the mushroom coral. By placing a rubber band around the rock to which the mushroom is attached and lashing it across the mouth of the mushroom, it will split within a couple of days. While this method may not be the safest, it can be effective in fragging mushroom corals.
Additionally, rubber bands can be used to secure a bowl containing fragged shrooms, rubble rock, and water. The rubber band is used to seal the bowl, which is then placed in the frag tank or the corner of the aquarium. Within a couple of weeks, the shrooms will attach to the rubble and can then be glued to larger pieces of rock.
It is important to note that when using rubber bands with mushroom corals, it is recommended to use rubber bands that are specifically designed for marine use and are safe for coral. Regular rubber bands may contain chemicals that could leach into the water and potentially harm the coral or other aquatic life.
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Using a DIY box to secure mushroom corals
Mushroom corals can be challenging to secure in place, but a DIY box can be an effective solution. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating and using a DIY box to secure mushroom corals:
Choosing the Right Container
The first step is to select an appropriate container for your mushroom coral frag box. You can use various containers, such as acrylic, glass, or plastic. Consider using a fish acclimation box, which often comes with flow holes or vents and can be mounted on the sides of the aquarium. Alternatively, a simple plastic food container can also work well. Ensure the container has good flow or can be easily modified to add flow.
Creating Flow Holes
If your chosen container doesn't have flow holes, you'll need to create them. Use a drill and a drill bit to drill holes where you want the flow to pass through. Drill holes on each side and the bottom of the container to ensure adequate water circulation. After drilling, clean up any rough edges and plastic particles with sandpaper or a file, then thoroughly wash the container to prevent any debris from ending up in your tank.
Adding Substrate
The next step is to add a substrate to the bottom of your mushroom coral frag box. Rubble rock is an excellent option, as mushrooms quickly attach themselves to it, creating a natural look. You can use a hammer and chisel to create rubble rock from a piece of dry rock. Rinse the rock to remove any visible organic matter before adding it to your tank.
Using the DIY Box
Once your box is prepared, place the rubble rock at the bottom and then introduce the mushroom coral. The coral will attach itself to the rubble rock over time. If you're concerned about the coral floating out of the box due to high flow, you can use plastic screen netting to wrap around the container. This will catch any floating mushroom corals and prevent them from escaping.
Additional Tips
When placing your DIY box in the tank, consider choosing a location with lower flow and medium light, as mushroom corals tend to thrive better in these conditions. Additionally, you can cover the box with something to prevent the coral from being knocked out by flow or other disturbances.
Creating a DIY box for your mushroom corals is a straightforward and effective way to secure them in your tank. With the right materials and a bit of creativity, you can improve the survivability rate of your mushroom corals and make it easier to mount and display them.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use super glue to attach mushroom corals to rocks. It is best to take the rock out of the tank first. Dry the underside of the coral with a tissue and put a blob of glue in the centre of the underside. Hold the coral on the rock for 10 seconds or so and then put the rock back in the tank.
Marine glue can be used to attach mushroom corals to rocks. Some people also use epoxy.
Yes, rubber bands can be used to attach mushroom corals to rocks.
