How to Acclimate Fish and Coral

To reduce stress and increase survivability, all new animals should be properly acclimated as soon as possible before being introduced into a quarantine tank or aquarium.

Animals sold through our Suppliers are captive-bred in bio-controlled systems with standard aquarium water parameters. They are shipped within the continental US and are in transit for less than 24 hours. These acclimation guidelines may differ for other shippers’ livestock or animals from other sources, such as local fish stores. Tropical Fish and Coral recommends that you acclimate your livestock in a separate isolation tank for observation before adding them into your main display, when and if possible.

Temperature Acclimation

1. TURN OFF THE LIGHTS & ATO

Turn off aquarium lights to reduce stress on the animal. If you have an Auto Top Off (ATO) system, switch it off before starting the acclimation process.

2. FLOAT THE BAG

Float the sealed bag containing your animal in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes. This allows the temperature in the bag to equalize with the tank.

• If your aquarium’s parameters are standard and the fish appears unstressed, proceed to Step 3A: Add Fish.
• If your aquarium has non-standard parameters or the fish looks stressed, follow Step 3B: Parameter Acclimation instead.

3A. Add Fish (Standard Method)

Once temperature acclimation is complete:

• Use a net to gently transfer the fish from the bag to the aquarium.
• Discard the water from the bag. Do not pour shipping water into your aquarium.
• Observe your new fish closely for the first 48 hours. It’s normal for a new fish to take some time to start eating.

3B. Parameter Acclimation (If Needed)

This method is recommended only if the fish looks stressed upon arrival or if your aquarium has non-standard water parameters.

1. OPEN BAG & TRANSFER TO CONTAINER

• After floating the sealed bag to equalize temperature, carefully open it.
• Transfer the animal and its water into a clean bucket or container.

2. ACCLIMATE USING TANK WATER

• Add 1/4 cup of tank water to the bucket every 5 minutes for 40 minutes.

3. TRANSFER FISH TO AQUARIUM

• Once acclimation is complete, use a net to gently transfer the fish into the aquarium.
• Do not pour water from the bucket into the aquarium.

4. REFILL THE AQUARIUM WITH SALTWATER

• Due to the water removed during the acclimation process, you may need to add fresh saltwater to your aquarium.

Coral Acclimation

Corals are generally more resilient than fish when it comes to shipping stress. However, taking proper acclimation steps ensures long-term health. While BRS strives to provide clean, pest-free corals, it is still essential to inspect and dip new corals to prevent the introduction of pests, parasites, and algae into your aquarium.

Dipping Corals (Recommended After 24 Hours)

We do not recommend dipping corals immediately upon arrival. Instead:

• Wait 24 hours after introducing corals to your aquarium before dipping them.
• This reduces stress and improves survival rates.
• The risk of pests becoming problematic within the first 24 hours is very low.

Did You Know?

The leading cause of coral loss is improper dipping and the resulting stress. Always measure the correct amount of dip solution—adding extra chemicals does NOT improve effectiveness and can harm corals.

Step-by-Step Coral Acclimation Process

1. Cut open the bags and pour water into a container. Gently place coral frags inside.
2. Gradually add tank water until corals are fully submerged.
3. Gently blow off corals with a baster to remove detritus.
4. Place corals at the bottom of your reef on a frag rack to adjust to your aquarium’s lighting.
5. After 24 hours, optionally dip and clean corals in a separate container.
6. When mounting corals, use a tiny amount of superglue combined with a small ball of aquarium-safe epoxy for secure placement.
7. Press the coral frag into the rock crevices to ensure stability.

Safe Handling Guidelines

• LPS & SPS Corals: Avoid touching the live tissue, as pressure and skin oils can damage the coral. Always handle corals by their frag plug or the rock base.
• Zoanthids & Palythoa Corals: These corals contain Palytoxin, which is highly toxic.
  • Always wear gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask when handling them.
  • Never touch your eyes, mouth, or nose while handling these corals.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and rinse well after handling.

By following these acclimation steps, you can significantly increase the survival and health of your new fish and corals, ensuring a thriving saltwater aquarium!