Michael Davis
Mushroom corals are known to be quite stubborn and picky about their living conditions. They can move around aquariums to find more favourable areas, and will detach from their base and use the water flow to float to a new location. While mushroom corals can be left to attach on their own, there are ways to encourage them to settle in a desired area. One method is to use a small plastic cup with holes cut in the sides for flow, placed over the coral, with the cup glued to a rock. Another method is to use a needle and thread to attach the coral to a rock. Some people also use zip ties or rubber bands to attach the corners of the coral to a small piece of rock, which can then be glued in place.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time taken to attach | 3 days to 2 weeks |
| Methods | Using zip ties/rubber bands to attach corners, gluing to a small piece of LR, using a plastic cup with holes cut in the sides, using a needle and thread, super glue, placing in a floating tank with rocks |
| Considerations | May need help unbunching and unfolding, do not disturb unless overturned as this causes extreme stress |
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What You'll Learn
Using super glue to attach the coral to a plug or rock
Using super glue to attach mushroom coral to a plug or rock is a common method used by many aquarists. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively:
First, it is important to prepare the surface of the plug or rock by cleaning it thoroughly. Algae and other debris can accumulate, making it challenging for the glue to adhere properly. Use pressurised water to blow away any debris, and consider using a brush to ensure the surface is clean. This step is crucial, as it will ensure a stronger bond between the coral and the surface.
Once the surface is prepared, it is time to apply the super glue. For best results, opt for a gel-based super glue designed specifically for aquatic use, as it tends to hold better than liquid super glue. Apply a generous amount of super glue directly to the cleaned section of the plug or rock where you want the coral to attach. You can also apply the glue directly to the coral frag plug, depending on your preferred method.
If you are using the "'sandwich method", you would apply a layer of two-part epoxy putty on top of the super glue. This combination creates a quality seal and raises the success rate of attachment. Press the coral onto the desired spot and hold it firmly in place for at least 15-30 seconds. You can also twist it slightly while pressing down to ensure a strong bond.
If you are attaching the coral to a plug, consider using a small plastic cup to cover the coral and create a low-flow environment. Cut some holes in the sides of the cup to allow for some water flow. Within a few days, the coral should attach itself to the plug or rock.
When handling the coral and using super glue, always wear latex gloves to protect your hands and avoid any accidental skin bonding. Additionally, be mindful that super glue can bond quickly, so work efficiently and ensure the coral is positioned exactly where you want it before the glue sets.
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Placing the coral in a cup with a rock and low flow
Mushroom corals can be stubborn and picky when it comes to finding a comfortable home in your aquarium. If you're having trouble getting your mushroom coral to attach to a rock, one effective method is to use a cup with low flow. Here's a step-by-step guide to increase your chances of success:
Prepare the Cup and Rock:
Start by choosing a small plastic cup, such as a jello shot cup, and cut it in half horizontally. You'll be using the bottom half as a cover for your coral. Place the cup in a low-flow area of your aquarium, preferably in a corner or somewhere with minimal water movement. Prepare a rock that you want the coral to attach to by cleaning it and ensuring it's free of any debris. You can use a live rock that suits the specific needs of mushroom corals.
Place the Coral in the Cup:
Gently lift your mushroom coral and place it in the cup with a small amount of water, just enough to cover the coral. You can also add a few small rocks to the cup to weigh it down and provide a more stable environment. Make a few small holes in the sides of the cup to allow for some water flow and prevent complete stagnation.
Encourage Attachment:
To encourage the coral to attach to the rock, you can try a few techniques. One method is to use super glue. Apply a small amount of super glue to the rock or a frag plug, then gently place the coral on top of it. You can also try using a needle and thread to securely attach the coral to the rock. Pass the needle through the lower part of the coral's stem and then tie it securely to the rock.
Patience is Key:
Mushroom corals can take their time to attach, so patience is crucial. It may take anywhere from a few days to a week or even more for the coral to fully attach. During this time, it's important to monitor the coral but avoid disturbing it unless it's struggling to right itself. Keep the water flow low in the area to prevent the coral from being dislodged before it has a chance to attach.
Introduce Flow Gradually:
Once your mushroom coral has successfully attached to the rock, you can gradually introduce more water flow to the area. Do this slowly over a few days to allow the coral to adjust to the new conditions. Eventually, you can move the attached coral to an area with better flow in your aquarium.
Remember, the process may vary, and each coral has its unique preferences. Be observant, and don't be afraid to make adjustments to create a comfortable environment for your mushroom coral to thrive.
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Using a needle and thread to attach the coral to a rock
One method to attach mushroom coral to a rock is to use a needle and thread. This method is instructive and detailed, and here is a step-by-step guide:
Firstly, place the mushroom coral in the desired spot on the rock. Then, take a needle and carefully insert it through the lower part of the stem of the coral, being careful not to pierce the mouth. You can also try angling the needle near the mouth, as this will help the coral adhere more quickly.
Next, cut a small piece of rubber band, about 1/4 inch long, and place it over the needle. This will provide extra support and protection for the coral. Now, gently push and wiggle the needle into the rock to secure the coral in place. The rock should be live rock, which is relatively soft and easy to penetrate.
Once the needle is firmly in place, slide the rubber band down to hold the mushroom coral against the rock securely. Within a few days to a week, the coral will naturally adhere to the rock. At this point, you can carefully remove the needle by wiggling and pulling it out.
This method is effective and does not leave any unsightly residue or cause harm to the coral or other tank inhabitants. It is a direct and focused approach to attaching mushroom coral to a rock, utilizing basic tools that are likely to be readily available.
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Trapping the coral in an area with a gate and rocks
One way to attach mushroom coral to rocks is to trap the coral in a confined area using a gate and some rocks. This method can take one to two weeks, and you may have to help the coral a bit by unbunching it. However, eventually, it will unfold itself and attach.
First, set up a gate to restrict the coral to a small area. Then, place a bunch of rocks in the enclosed space. Argonite rocks are mentioned as a successful option. The coral will then attach itself to one of the rocks. You can also try placing the mushroom coral in a small stack of rocks in an area with low flow. This method has been reported to take three days for the coral to reattach.
Another method involves using a plastic cup. Cut a plastic cup in half and place the bottom half over the mushroom coral, similar to how you would cover something with a cup. Cut some holes in the sides to allow some flow. Within a week, the coral should attach to the crushed coral bedding. You can then glue the coral to a rock.
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Encouraging the coral to settle in a specific area by adding new live rock
Coral reefs are an important part of the ecosystem, providing food, income, and coastal protection for millions of people worldwide. In recent years, the saltwater fishkeeping hobby has expanded to include reef tanks, which are fish tanks that include large amounts of live rock on which coral can grow and spread.
Live rock is rock that has been submerged in an established saltwater reef tank long enough to become populated with beneficial bacteria. Live rock can be purchased or created by taking a suitable rock and placing it in a tank for several weeks.
To encourage mushroom coral to settle in a specific area, you can add new live rock to that area. One method is to attach the coral to a smaller piece of live rock using zip ties, rubber bands, or super glue, and then attach the live rock to the desired location in the tank. This way, if you need to move the coral for any reason, it is already attached to something. You can also place the coral in a cup with low flow and some rubble rock, and it should cling on to the rock within a few days.
It can take coral anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to attach, and it may be necessary to help it unfold and attach properly. Once the coral has attached, you can move it to an area with better flow.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom corals move around aquariums to find more favourable areas. If your mushroom coral has detached, you can encourage it to attach to a rock by placing it in a cup with low flow and some rubble rock. It should naturally cling on within a few days. You can also use super glue to attach the mushroom coral to the rock, but this may be more challenging if the mushroom coral is not already attached to something.
It can take anywhere from a few days to one or two weeks for mushroom coral to attach to a rock.
If your mushroom coral is comfortable, it will attach itself to a rock in the aquarium. If it is not comfortable, it may refuse to attach and roll around the bottom of the aquarium.
