CORAL CARE AND ACCLIMATION
Care & AcclimationFollow these simple steps to reduce stress and give your coral the best start in your display.
Pre arrival checklist
- Ensure stable parameters (see table below)
- Iodine reef dip
- Prepare a clean container
- Turkey Baster
On arrival
- Open the package promptly and inspect for visible damage.
- We don't suggest any drip acclimation or temp acclimation but focus more on getting them in the tank where they can get fresh flowing water
- Photograph any obvious damage and retain packaging for 24 hours.
Acclimation methods
Visual Inspection + Turkey (recommended)
- Float sealed bag 10–15 minutes.
- Add small amounts of tank water every 5 minutes for 20–30 minutes.
- Place frag in low light, low flow for 24–48 hours.
- Gradually increase light & flow over 3–7 days.
Visual Inspection + Turkey Basting
- Transfer coral + bag water/tank water to a clean container.
- Perform a thorough visual inspection to the coral itself glue and plug
- Double container volume over 60–90 minutes (longer if needed).
- Place in low light and monitor for 24–72 hours.
Ideal water targets
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 78°F |
| Salinity | 1.025–1.026 |
| pH | 8.0–8.4 |
| Alkalinity | 7.5-8.5 dKH |
| Calcium | 450 ppm |
| Magnesium | 1350 ppm |
| Nitrate / Phosphate | Nitrate 2-15 • Phosphate 0.02-0.08 |
Lighting, flow & feeding
Lighting & flow
- Start with lower lighting for 24–48 hours; increase slowly.
- Moderate, variable flow is best — avoid direct high‑velocity jets.
- Gentle pulses help feeding and waste removal.
Feeding & maintenance
- Target feed 1–2× per week with meaty foods or coral pellets.
- Keep calcium & alkalinity stable for skeletal growth.
- Weekly parameter checks and regular water changes maintain health.
If something arrives damaged
- Photograph the frag and packaging within 2 hours. If something is just stressed give us a heads up. We have a 5 Day Guarantee
- Take very clear photos of any DOA or Damage.
- Email 818aquatics@gmail.com within 24 hours with photos — we’ll advise next steps.
FAQ
How long before a frag opens?
Many LPS open within 24–72 hours once comfortable; some types take longer.
Do you ship with ice packs?
We use temperature control as needed for safe transit. Follow the arrival checklist on receipt.
Can I return a coral?
Contact us within 24 hours with photos. We’ll review and advise next steps.
Need help? Email 818aquatics@gmail.com
Photograph arrival issues within 2 hours. We respond quickly.