how long for a colt ?-General Reef Topics-3reef Forums

danger dave · 08-21-2007, 10:04 PM

i was wondering how long it will take for a 1" colt coral frag to grow to 5 or 6"? and what supplements should i use? im using essential elements zoo and phytoplex?

Bruce · 08-21-2007, 10:49 PM

Ah...the wonderful colt coral! The growth rate of this coral is amazing. I wouldnt be surprised if that 1" piece turned to 6" in a few months...after a while it will take over everything! At one point (pre-brown jelly) my colt coral took up 1/3 of my 55gal tank.

danger dave · 08-21-2007, 10:59 PM

so should i be worried that itll take over my whole reef or what?

Bruce · 08-21-2007, 11:04 PM

I wouldnt worry...if it ever gets to that point you can always trim it. I do that once and a while to help control my colt's brown jelly problem.

Really though, it probably wont be a problem...and even if it is, it will be a pretty long time and is easily solved with some scissors.

danger dave · 08-21-2007, 11:12 PM

what do you mean by brown jelly?

coral reefer · 08-22-2007, 02:07 AM

Colts can grow at an alarming rate given the right water parameters, lighting and water flow. They require moderate water flow, medium intensity lighting, an iodine supplement is ideal as well as a water temp. of around 80 degrees!
They are sometimes infected with brown band disease, like somany other Octocorals!

danger dave · 08-22-2007, 03:45 PM

o should i buy iodine from the lfs (kent marine)? or will i be ok with out it?