New Coral Arrival: Prepare the Record Before the Box
Arrival care begins before opening the delivery. A prepared observation space, supplier instructions and a place to record the coral's history reduce rushed decisions.
Before arrival
Save the order details and best-supported identification. Ask the supplier about shipping, previous light and their acclimation instructions. Plan a suitable separate observation or quarantine arrangement where appropriate, including equipment and cross-contamination precautions.
At unpacking
Record arrival time and visible condition without unnecessary handling. Follow an informed procedure appropriate to the animal and shipment rather than a generic internet timetable. Be cautious about transferring transport water or equipment between systems.
Do not improvise a treatment
If a dip is appropriate, use the actual product directions and check suitability for the coral and suspected target. Combining chemicals, extending exposure or assuming every life stage is eliminated can create additional problems. Potentially toxic zoanthids need specific handling caution.
After placement
- Record the chosen location, lighting and flow context.
- Take a baseline whole-colony photograph.
- Keep follow-up observations with dates and measured readings.
- Seek help for rapid tissue loss rather than repeatedly moving or dosing the animal.
Keep the uncertainty
A successful arrival is the start of observation, not proof that an animal is free of every hitchhiker or future problem.
Join the discussion
What's your first check for new frags?
Sources and further reading
Source: Original Verdant guide