Coral Frags...pricing etc.

Is there a guide to buying frags...what to look for, healthy looks, unhealthy looks, whats a good price whats a rip off, who to buy from, who not to buy from, etc? I'm a bit overwelmed when looking at corals and choosing what I would like to have. I found this craigslist add and they have a lot of stuff with wide price ranges.

Parting out Tank - Coral Frags FS

Any suggestions?

Brian

 

Good question. I don't think there is, depends on what's hot at the time.

If there is a guide, I'd be very interested in it.

 

Wow....that chalice (first single pic) is pretty incredible!

 

This is what I look for in a frag.

A frag that is encrusting the plug, the plug should not appear all nice and new without any coralline growth, at least a dusting. I have found that brand new plugs have two down falls. First being that it may mean the frag is newly cut and has not had time to completely heal, and second, in my experience frags and super glue or epoxy tend to fall off the plug.

A frag should also not have any visual, noticeable algae growth on it. Growth of byropsis, green hair algae, bubble algae and cyanobacteria should be avoided if possible.

Good coloration to begin with. All frags will loose some color from shipping stress, so starting with a nice coloration helps.

The larger the frag you can get the more stable it will be during acclimation.

And lastly closely visually inspect and dip and or QT frags when possible to prevent introduction of pest.

Hope that helps somewhat.

 

Those corals look great! Love that chalice.

 

I asked if they would ship...they said yes.

Brian

 

That really helps a lot, thx. Now have to price compare.

Brian

 

Just be careful when buying from people in Florida. You need a licence to sell corals here and if Florida Fish and wildlife catch you they will fine you.

 

You need a license to sell as a hobbyist?

 

They sure ruined someones day at MACNA for sure.