How to acclimate Corals to your Reef Tank

If you're setting up a new reef tank, or if you're adding new corals to an existing tank, it's important to properly acclimate them to their new environment. Corals are delicate creatures that can be easily stressed by changes in water chemistry, temperature, and lighting. Improper acclimation can lead to a weakened immune system, which can leave your corals vulnerable to disease and other problems.

Here are some steps you can follow to properly acclimate your corals:

Float the bag:

When you receive your new corals, they will likely come in a plastic bag filled with water. Float the bag in your tank for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the temperature in the bag to equalize with the temperature in your tank. This will help prevent thermal shock, which can be fatal to corals.

Test the water:

While the bag is floating, test the water in the bag for pH, salinity, and other important parameters. This will give you an idea of how different the water in the bag is from the water in your tank. If there are significant differences, you may need to acclimate your corals more slowly.

Drip acclimation:

Once the temperature in the bag has equalized, you can begin drip acclimation. This involves slowly adding water from your tank to the bag over a period of several hours. You can do this by siphoning water from your tank into the bag using airline tubing. Start by adding a few drops of water every few minutes, and gradually increase the flow rate over time.

Check the parameters:

As you drip acclimate your corals, it's important to periodically test the water in the bag for pH, salinity, and other important parameters. If you notice any significant changes, you may need to slow down the drip rate or take other steps to ensure a smoother transition.

Transfer the corals:

Once the drip acclimation is complete, carefully transfer the corals from the bag to your tank. It's important to handle the corals gently and avoid touching their delicate tissues. Place them in a spot with appropriate lighting and water flow, and monitor them closely for signs of stress or other issues.

By following these steps, you can help ensure a smooth transition for your corals and give them the best possible chance of thriving in your reef tank. Remember to be patient and take your time during the acclimation process – it may take several hours, but it's worth it to protect the health and wellbeing of your coral colony.

Very Helpful!

Since I an just getting starting to keep coral now, I found the "How to acclimate Corals to your Reef Tank" on your blog page very helpful. Thank you.

Carlos Feliciano, 03/13/2023 15:13:51