Transferring encrusted sps to new tank?

[ODSlim]

Hi. How do you go about transferring encrusted sps to a new tank without the rock it’s encrusted on? Can I clip it at the base and remount to its new location? The whole point of me doing this is that I don’t want to reuse the LR that currently in my system due to aiptasia and bubble algae. I currently have other rock curing in separate bins with heaters and circulation pumps. I’v learned a lot from this current tank so I can make due and still enjoy it till the tank upgrade is stable. Thanks

 

[bobby.w.hodges]

Clip it, or drill around the encrusted base and use a screwdriver and hammer to pop off the whole colony. I would try to save as much as possible if it were me.

 

[ODSlim]

Clip it, or drill around the encrusted base and use a screwdriver and hammer to pop off the whole colony. I would try to save as much as possible if it were me.

Thanks Bobby. Assuming this was your technique in the past, what was your success rate upon doing so, is it hit or miss?

I know naturally mini colonies are done this way to cultivate or export from all over the world to make up our reefs. But from a hobbyist or aquaculture stand point Id like to see or hear the pros and cons.

 

[bobby.w.hodges]

It's mostly successful. Use a drill bit to create stress lines in the rock, the more the better, try to make them connect to others. The corals should pop off easily.

 

[Keen4]

It's mostly successful. Use a drill bit to create stress lines in the rock, the more the better, try to make them connect to others. The corals should pop off easily.

Do you do this with the rock and encrusting coral out of the water or in the water? Im afraid my drill will electrocute me if I work on this type of system in a pan of water.