ONLINE NEWSLETTER - 3rd Edition
Articles by Tammy J. Keiffer
Agrocrete Live Rock | January 2010
Agrocrete reef rocks are commonly used for reef reconstruction in the ocean and works great for a closed system as long as they are cured correctly prior to placing them into the aquarium. In the right conditions life will thrive taking into account that adequate light is provided and all parameters stay within range.
Items needed: Crushed Coral, Portland I, II, or III cement, and argocrete sand. You will also need mixing, curing, and molding containers. Wear gloves while working with cement. Combine crushed coral or crushed oyster shells with agrocrete sand and Portland type I, II, or III cement, and water. Mix it to the consistency that allows you to mold it. Not too dry, Not too slushy. Pour the sand/mold into a container, dig trenches if you wish. Place the mixed concoction on top. This way the bottom of the rocks will not be flat when they dry. Allow the rocks to dry for at least 24 hours.
The newly created rocks leach alkaline which raises the PH. It is very important to cure these rocks until the PH stabilizes. Place in fresh water for about 4 to 6 weeks with weekly water changes. Check the PH until it is below 8.0. NOTE: Do not cure these in the main display aquarium. Large coolers with drains make suitable curing bins or 5 gallon containers.
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