The intention is to give those new to the hobby and good idea on how to attach coral frags to rockwork in your aquarium. The methods given below are methods I have actually used at one time or another and will cure underwater so rocks don’t have to be removed to do it, but if rocks are easily removed it is easier to do outside of the tank.
What you need:
Super glue gel, regular super glue works but gel works much much better.
AND/OR
Marine two part epoxy, the kind to mix with your fingers.
Paper towels
And of course a coral frag!
Now you’ll want to find a location in your tank to mount your frag. You’ll want to take into account the requirements that your new coral requires, light, flow and so on. If the location has a slight depression it will make it a little easier.
If your frag disk or plug would fit better trimming it first, now is the time to do it. Often times I will remove the little protrusion on the bottom of the disk with a pair of small wire cutters before I glue it in the tank.
If using marine epoxy mix it now, and attach it to the bottom of your frag disk. Then simply push the coral to the rock where you want it to attach. If you have super glue gel on hand you can apply some straight to the epoxy and will help to make a quicker bond.
If using only super glue gel apply a generous portion to the bottom of your frag disk. Then put the frag where you want it in your tank. Wiggle it around a little bit when applying it and you’ll have to hold it for a couple minutes while the glue sets (yes it sets underwater). I often times get glue on my fingers but it usually just peels off once it is dry.
Epoxy will give you a stronger bond than just super glue but I often just use super glue because as the coral grows over time it will encrust over the glue and make the bond that much stronger. I also don’t worry about the glue showing afterwards as the coral will grow over the glue and you won’t be able to see it down the road.
And presto you have attached your first frag in your aquarium. Enjoy and happy reefing.
Author Bio:
Jared is the owner of www.myreeftoyours.com where he works with 100’s of live coral frags on a daily basis. Attaching coral frags can be quick and easy with a little practice.