How to Introduce SPS Corals without Pest Algae

[nickkohrn]

I’m going SPS-only with my upcoming build, and I’m trying to get an idea of how people prevent pest algae from being introduced by way of frag plugs and rocks.

Is it appropriate to cut frags off of the plugs while leaving a little bit of the coral on the frag plug? Doing so would leave only the freshly-cut coral and new frag plug being introduced, hopefully eliminating the introduction of pest algae and other pests that like to hide within the cracks and crevices of the plugs.

What is your method for introducing new SPS corals while attempting to remain as pest-free as possible during the process?

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Avoid encrusted frags and cut the plugs. Or toss the encrusted bits.
Qt is the best way.

 

[wom001]

Man i know people who swear by cutting off the encrusted base /frag and remounting. The base usually has all the bad algae and typical pests on it but man am I hesitant doing that. Honestly, when i tried it in the past I will admit that I wasnt at the top of my game nor was my system as sophisticated / on point the way it is now. As much as it sketches me out to do it, ill probably start cutting off the base of any new addition just to avoid any chance of cross contamination.

 

[jda]

Coral QT is the best method, but still can let stuff by. In all honesty, unless you QT all of your inverts as well as the corals, then pest algae is going to get into the tank. IMO, it is better to just have consumers/eaters than expecting to keep it all out forever.

 

[Velcro]

Coral QT is the best method, but still can let stuff by. In all honesty, unless you QT all of your inverts as well as the corals, then pest algae is going to get into the tank. IMO, it is better to just have consumers/eaters than expecting to keep it all out forever.

This.