Coral Growth and Propagation - How to Frag Corals

Coral Growth and Propagation - How to Frag Corals

Using frag plugs to propagate coral is a standard practice in reef-keeping and coral farming. Here's a clear, step-by-step guide to help you:

What You'll Need:

  • Coral frag (cut or broken piece of coral)
  • Frag plug (ceramic, aragonite, or plastic)
  • Coral glue or epoxy (reef-safe super glue gel is most common)
  • Coral cutters/bone shears (if fragging manually)
  • Gloves and eye protection
  • Small container with tank water (for handling coral)
  • Frag rack or egg crate (optional, for organizing in tank)


Step-by-Step: How to Use a Frag Plug

1. Choose a Healthy Donor Coral

Pick a healthy coral colony with visible growth and no signs of disease or stress.

2. Cut the Coral Frag

Use coral cutters or bone shears to cleanly cut a branch or section of the coral. For soft corals, you can slice a piece with a scalpel or sharp scissors. Tip: Dip tools in tank water between cuts to avoid cross-contamination.

3. Prepare the Frag Plug

Dry the top of the frag plug (where you’ll glue the coral). This helps the glue stick better.

4. Apply Coral Glue or Epoxy

  • Apply a small amount of reef-safe super glue gel to the plug's top.
  • For soft corals or slippery frags, you can use a combination of glue and reef epoxy.

5. Attach the Coral Frag

  • Press the frag gently but firmly into the glue.
  • Hold for 10–30 seconds until it sets.
  • Optional: Let it sit out of water for 1–2 minutes to further set (some glue benefits from brief air exposure).

6. Place the Plug in Tank

  • Insert the plug into a frag rack or crevice in your live rock.
  • Ensure it's stable and getting proper flow and lighting for that coral species.


Post-Propagation Care

  • Monitor for slime or stress (some is normal in the first 24 hours).
  • Keep water parameters stable (alkalinity, calcium, magnesium).
  • Avoid strong flow or aggressive neighbours until the frag heals and attaches fully.


Additional Tips:

  • Label frags if you're propagating multiple species.
  • Acclimate frags if placing in different lighting or flow zones than the mother colony.
  • Dip frags in coral dips (like iodine product) before returning to tank if they were exposed to air or external tools.

 

At PepperforPets, we offer a range of coral fragging tools, including cutters and large and extra large frag plugs. Our unique designs of dome and break-off plates give you flexibility in growth and propagation, making the hobby a truly enjoyable one for you!

 

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