Anyone used this rock?

hummer · #1 06-30-2009, 07:56 PM

I'm looking into some cheap base rock to raise my live rock. I did a search and found this one thread http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/sho...highlight=lava

Summary from link: Tuffa Rock. $0.40/lb. From Ornamental Garden Supplies.

Has anyone else tried this stuff from Ornamental Garden Supplies? Do I just ask for Tuffa rock or are there multiple types? Can I add it directly to the tank or do I have to cure it or anything?

Or if anyone has any other suggestions on where to get base rock that works...like lava or tuffa.

Thanks for your input.

fishytime · #2 06-30-2009, 09:35 PM

I would re-think the tuffa rock....is actually too porous.... it will quickly fill up with debris and become a source nitrates and bio-organic phosphates.....I had one piece in my tank that was the only piece of rock in the whole tank that grew hair algae...its since been removed.

Snaz · #3 06-30-2009, 10:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fishytime

I had one piece in my tank that was the only piece of rock in the whole tank that grew hair algae...its since been removed.

Probably the Iron content.

Skimmin · #4 06-30-2009, 10:43 PM

I have 115 lbs in my tank right now and no problems yet. If anything it is much more solid then live rock so it displaces a lot of water which means a smaller amount of water but no complaints on my end. After it grows coraline algae you won't be able to tell the difference. Just make sure you rinse it really well and try to buy clean rock that isn't 'dirty' looking. I bought it for $0.48/lb so about $50.00 for 115 lbs. I think its a good option if you don't want to spend $5 or $10/lb on base rock.

hummer · #5 07-01-2009, 12:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skimmin

I have 115 lbs in my tank right now and no problems yet. If anything it is much more solid then live rock so it displaces a lot of water which means a smaller amount of water but no complaints on my end. After it grows coraline algae you won't be able to tell the difference. Just make sure you rinse it really well and try to buy clean rock that isn't 'dirty' looking. I bought it for $0.48/lb so about $50.00 for 115 lbs. I think its a good option if you don't want to spend $5 or $10/lb on base rock.

How long have you had it in your tank?

Skimmin · #6 07-01-2009, 12:51 AM

I've had the majority for a couple months but some of it is over a couple years old. I purchased the largest amount for the base rock in my new 210gal which I'll be setting up soon. I have it all 'stuffed' in my system so it's ready to go with the new tank