Coral acclimation

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Corals will likely be stressed after shipment. We recommend that customers follow these steps to acclimate the corals to their new environment and ensure their health. Note, follow these steps for coral only!

1. First, activate the acclimation option on your tank lights. If your lights do not have an acclimation option, reduce the intensity by 50% to allow the corals time to adjust. We recommend you slowly increase the intensity over a 2-week period.
2. Float the corals in the tank or sump for about 10 minutes to minimize any drastic temperature differences.
3. Carefully empty the coral bags into a tub or a bucket. Keep track of how much water is coming out of the containers. You will need to know this to measure the oral dip you choose for Step 5.  Please note, the corals are likely going to be upset from shipping and may be closed up. This is normal!
4. Slowly double the volume of water by adding water from the tank over a 20-30 minute period.
5. This step is optional, but we recommend it. Select a coral dip that is gentle on corals, but will help remove any pests that may have come along for the ride. At Doc’s Corals, we prefer CoralRX or Seachem’s Reef Dip. We have found both to be effective and gentle on the coral.
6. Don’t rush mounting your corals to your reefscape. Place them into areas of the aquarium with moderate flow and low light. Again, shipping is stressful on the coral and they may take several days to adjust to their new home. We recommend giving them at least 5-7 days before you consider mounting them in your reefscape.
7. Finally - watch the corals as they acclimate for signs of stress or bleaching. Adjust their location to different levels of light and flow as needed to ensure their health and happiness.