Live/Dead Rock

[Vanillaboots]

Hi There
Complete Newby here from Birmingham (not Alabama - UK). I am picking up a 50G tank with 20G sump tonight that I just bought off Ebay, (V excited) The tank is empty at the moment but the guy says that he will throw in some live rock for free that just needs some algae cleaning off it.
My question is - if ths rock has been out of a tank for any length of time, does it die or will it be OK to use straight away?:rollface:

 

[HornetMech242]

I am guessing you are talking about transporting the rock? If so put the rock in a rubber made container and put saltwater in it to keep the rocks nice and wet. Look up what is called "cooking rock". This is a process you starve the rock from light to kill the algae.

I know that was not a complete answer so someone please chime in.

Chris

 

[jeffb3t]

Yes, cooking the rock is a good idea, but will take a couple months to complete. Just enough time to get the set up ready for everything. Don't forget to add PH to flow the water and to fluch out out the junk in the rocks. Swishing the rocks and changing the water every week is a good idea too.

 

[jeffb3t]

BT, Welcome to RC!!!!!

 

[fsa]

I would look at the live rock that he wants to throw in and see what it looks like. What kind/how much algae is on it? Most live rock (I think) is shipped somewhat dry (kept damp only) to save on shipping charges. I agree with shannahan. Take some kind of container and transport the rock in it. It may not be too bad.

Good luck, Frank

 

[TOYMAN357]

How long has the rock been out of water? I have a a project now of about 300 lbs of rock that has not seen any water for 6 months or more. I put it in the largest rubbermaid barell the one that sits on wheels. I filled it with salt water mix and a heater and a powerfull pump and just letting it sit,,,what to do next??