Rocks

[allrndgq]

We all know that Live rocks or even Base rocks can get expensive. My question is I am looking to get atleast an additional 50 lbs maybe more .. Of rocks. Is there a list of specific rock types that you can have ? I know live rocks, but dead rocks ? I have heard of base rocks and lace rocks, but what else ? Those 2 rocks are tough to find in WI ? please help ?

 

[thomas712]

Aragonite - this is very reef safe and calcium based. A good choice, in fact the best choice.
Tufa- which can be a soft rock that coralline algea can grow rather well on. This rock can have heavy minerals in it which could make it a poor choice, but many have used it with success.
Lava- A few have used this with success as well but it to can have minerals in it making it a poor choice. Lace Rock is volcanic.
I listed these as a good deal of LFS that I have been to carry these three.
If you use Tufa or Lava set up a bucket with saltwater and test it over a few weeks to see if anything bad leaches out of the rock.
I purchased my aragonite base rock online, 50 pounds for about 53 dollars.
Thomas

 

[allrndgq]

Thats great information. I alway thought that Lava rock .. (that redish rock) was mainly for freshwater. Tufa rock is a light rock and could be a benefit. I know that you cannot post where you found the rock online .. But a hint would be nice ..

 

[sov82]

Live rock can be had online from this site or others for ~$3/lbs shipped to your door. Not bad.
Matt

 

[allrndgq]

Around the Mil area .. I tried calling Landscaping places .. I have not found Tufa rock .. But LFS tend to ---- you on prices.. There are really not that many good stores around here..