Softie Fragging 101

[Bkndsdl]

I’ve been a member of Reef Central for two years now. I’ve learned a lot, and I’ve gotten a lot of really great advice. I thought I’d return the favor by answering a question that gets asked very frequently - how to propagate soft corals. I’ll post how I go about fragging some of the stuff in my tank. I may not incorporate everybody’s method, but at least I can give you a good idea of how successful fragging is pretty easy to achieve.

I’ll start with getting the proper tools. I'll going to assume everyone will know those that are obvious, such as paper towels, rags, rubber bands, so on & so forth.


Tools Used For Fragging

Here are a few tools I use to make fragging a lot easier. By having these on hand and in good working condition, you can limit the amount of time the coral to be fragged is out of the water, and keep yourself from making a mess.

•Scissors: Any good pair of scissors will work. Make sure they are clean and operate freely. I check them each time I use them.

•Needles: I buy a pack of 24; they are different lengths, but I always use the longest ones I have (about 2” long). Make sure they are washed before and after you use them.
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/needles.jpg

•Fishing Line: I use 10lb test because that’s the smallest I’ve found.
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/fishing_line.jpg

•Tool: ‘Tool’ is actually wedding veil material. You can find it at WallyWorld in the fabrics section. It’s very cheap; $1 for a square yard, if I’m not mistaken. Sometimes they’ll have scrap pieces for less.
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/tool.jpg

•Cooking Pan: I use a round cake cooking pan. This will help you from flooding the floor (something my wife appreciates). I marked it with a marker to denote it was not to be used for cooking; I keep it in my stand.
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/cooking_pan.jpg

•Diagonal Cutters: These come in handy for breaking rock. Pay close attention when cleaning these; the spot right at the joint can get all kinds of gunk in it.
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/diag_cutters.jpg

•Various Cups: Just like it says. I use cake frosting cups; not only are they just the right size, it’s also fun to get them empty.
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/frosting_cup.jpg

That’s where I’ll end today. In the next installment, I will show – with many pics – how I go about fragging a green sinularia.

Hope this helps!

[nyvp]

Tnks it does....
now you need to fisnish the article.
Show us the rest

[sassyfish]

I like this method. I also like to sew/tie my softies to the rock/plug. They attach so fast!

[Fragmented]

nyvp -If you need some more info fast visit www.garf.org

They have propagation information for many different corals. Good step by step instructions. They will also answer questions on the phone if you need help.

[Bkndsdl]

Show us the rest

nyvp - as soon as I can! Until then, here's a pic of the green sinularia I'll be fragging from:

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/grn_sinu.jpg

[IslandCrow]

Great, an actual fragging thread! Speaking of thread, I also use the sewing method for most of the softies I've tried my hand at fragging, and it's been the easiest and most effective on shrooms, leathers and even xenia (that's about all I've tried). I've just been using regular thread, though. So far, I haven't had any issues, but I've noticed many people use fishing line. Is this a better option, and why is that? Is it just because it's transparent, or are there other reasons?

[sassyfish]

If I am not quick to remove the thread, I notice that it comes off too easily , deteriation I guess. So, I would assume this is not great for the tank. And from what I have seen in recent dives, fishing line seems to not deteriate at all....

[Bkndsdl]

Well, it's twofold. One, thread is like a razor when pulled tight; the water movement in the tank tends to make the thread slice right through the frag, not holding it long enough for it to attach. The fishing line is much larger, and tends not to pull through the frag.

Second, the thread does deteriorate. The fishing line will not.

[cacunacacuna]

Cool. I'm looking forward to your next installment. The photos are a nice touch.

[SLHerch]

Wanted to tag in here and say thanks for starting this thread...seems like some very good information!

not trying to change the subject here, but along with softie fragging...can you touch on how you might frag a mushroom? I have a huge mushroom rock that will not fit into my new setup, and i would like to transfer the mushrooms to a couple smaller rocks. Thanks!

steve

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7691838#post7691838 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by SLHerch
...can you touch on how you might frag a mushroom?


Steve, thanks for the comments! I planned on fragging a mushroom or two.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7681402#post7681402 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cacunacacuna
Cool. I'm looking forward to your next installment. The photos are a nice touch.

Thanks for the comments! That's why I started this thread; when I started trying to find information on fragging, I found all kinds of info, but either the threads didn't include pics or they were very unclear about the methods. Hopefully I can avoid confusion with pics.

Next installment should be up tomorrow (although probably kind of late in the afternoon), but definitely will be before the weekend's out!

[Bkndsdl]

Ok, so here goes…..

First and foremost – I have had problems with trying to sew frags that are too small. What you have to realize is, soft corals are filled with water. They will shrink tremendously when cut or taken out of the water. I always wait until I have a branch with a diameter of at least 1/4-1/2”. As you will see, the frag here is pretty small when it’s being handled; keep in mind it was about 3/8” diameter before I cut it.

Step 1: Get your tools ready. I’ve got my pan, paper towels, scissors and razor blade ready. I always go ahead and thread two needles. You may only need one (as in this case), but if you need two it saves a little time to have them already threaded.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/tools1.jpg

Step 2: Get your frag rock ready. I bought a pound of live rock rubble at my lfs for $2 a pound. I use it primarily for fragging; I keep it in my sump. When choosing the right rock, pick a rock that has at least one semi-flat side. You also want to ensure that the fishing line will have something to hold on to and stay put. Once you’ve picked your rock, pat the rock off with a paper towel and set it in the pan.

Step 3: Cut your frag. I used the scissors to cut this frag; I had to do that because my donor coral was attached to immovable rockwork. Most of the time it’s easier to take the donor out of the tank and cut the frag off with a razor blade.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/frag_rock.jpg

Step 4: Thread your frag. Here you see that I’ve pierced the frag at the base.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/frag_pierced.jpg

I’ll run it all the way through until the needle eye and about an inch of fishing line is through. Now pull one side of the fishing line through, and take the needle off.

Step 4: Tie your frag to your rock. Here you can see that I’ve tied the fishing line in a knot. I will place the rock in the loop, and pull on the ends of the line until the coral is pulled to the rock, with the freshly cut end against the rock. IMPORTANT: Don’t pull so tight that the fishing line pulls through the coral; you just want it tight enough to remain in contact with the rock. Depending on the size of your frag, it might be a little tricky getting the cut end to stay next to the rock; just be patient. You also may not be able to add the second line to tie it and stabilize it, so make sure you get a good size frag with at least a ¼” base when fully opened.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/tied_frag.jpg

Step 4: Place new frag in tank. Pat yourself on the back, you’ve just made your first frag!

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/new_sinu.jpg

Step 5: Remove the fishing line. You need to wait at least two weeks before removing the line; some frags take only days to attach, but if you try to remove the line too soon you could accidentally rip the coral from the rock. The line won’t break down, so you’ve got plenty of time to wait until the frag grows a little bigger.

That’s all for now; I’ll try a toadstool or something next! Hope this helps, and if I can help clarify, please don’t hesitate to ask!

[Bkndsdl]

I forgot to mention that this method can be used on colt corals, finger leathers, devil's hand leathers, and most other branching corals.

[tekknoschtev]

I'm really digging the writeup with photos. Its not something new to me, but definately is an interesting read to see how others frag. Do you have someone taking photos while you're fragging, or are you managing to photograph and frag simultaneously? I've wanted to document how I frag things like favia, acans, sinularia, shrooms, zoas, etc. Basically a bit of everything in my tank - but I find that getting someone to frame the photo to show off the details is difficult, and trying to photograph with wet hands tends to cause problems :p

If I may point out something I noticed, and have experienced in the past. I wouldn't try to place the cut end directly onto the rock. In my experience, and from what I've read, the frags do better of the cut end is open to flow to keep it flushed and help prevent infection. I dont know how true this is, but with my pulsing sinularia, xenia, and other similar corals, I always have kept the cut end open and they did well. I havent tried the other way so I cant say whether its true or not, just something I've read.

Again, excellent writeup. You have me motivated to find a willing photographer, or to ziplock my camera to prevent water damage :p

[Bkndsdl]

Thanks for the comments, Tekknoschtev!

I find that getting someone to frame the photo to show off the details is difficult, and trying to photograph with wet hands tends to cause problems

I take my own photos. I wipe my hands off on a towel before I pick the camera up (another thing my wife appreciates). The ziploc idea sounds like a good one!

the frags do better of the cut end is open to flow to keep it flushed and help prevent infection

I've read both. Funny, I've only tried it this way, and you've only tried it the other way, and they both work! Disproved those theories, haven't we? I guess the only difference could be attachment times. I have had frags attach in days, and I attribute that to placing the fresh cut end next to the rock, but on the other hand, I've had several corals just thrown on the substrate attach on the sides in no time, too......

I'm glad you posted! Believe me, I'm no expert, and like I said before, I may not get everyone's best method, but I hope I can at least shed some light on the process!:smokin:

[tekknoschtev]

Like I said, this thread has been an inspiration for me, and next time I'm home, I'm tearing down one frag tank and replacing it with another (same volume, but better tank - 40 tall to 40 breeder), and I'll have some area to fill up, and I'll have corals that are begging to be fragged.

I do agree with the disproving both of the theories. I've never really measured attachment time. I use the netting method, and with me being in school and work year round, I'm only home on the weekends and holidays, so they get at least a week between fragging and revealing :p Its nice to know both methods work. I think, in general, that people underestimate how hardy most of the corals out there are.

I'll work on documenting the process of fragging some things next time I'm home. Thanks for the inspiration!

[silverking]

thx great thread looking forward to seeing you do a mushroom

[Bkndsdl]

Thx for the comments!

Tekknoschtev, I'll be looking fwd to your fragging post!

Silverking, I should be able to get to a mushroom within the next couple of weeks.

Thx all for tuning in!

[Bkndsdl]

Attachment has occured on (or around) the 15th; basically one week for attachment. I'll wait a few more to remove the fishing line.

[tanyashankles]

Ok you have a great post on here I have read on it but cant find step by step on it. Thank you, I am so excited to try it on my devils hand soft coral. I have a couple of questions though... One, the 'donor' (I take it that is the coral you are taking the frag from) is it something that will heal on its own, or do you need to stitch up its wound? Also, can you frag from ANY part of it or does it need to be a joint or bend, branch if you will, and only one at a time or can you take several pieces at once? And Two, Do you let them heal inside the main tank? I noticed you said you dont want to cut while in the main tank because of toxin release, so is the donor going to be releasing toxins too? Im sorry for being an idiot, but Im really really new at this.. I am the only person I know that even has saltwater tank, so nobody but reefcentral to count on!! (Thank God for all of you!! ) Thank you!! Tanya

[lvpd186]

Nice write up, I look forward to seeing future fraggin'!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11562184#post11562184 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
Ok you have a great post on here I have read on it but cant find step by step on it.
Thanks, glad I could help!
the 'donor' (I take it that is the coral you are taking the frag from) is it something that will heal on its own, or do you need to stitch up its wound?
No need to stitch it back up, it will heal on its own.
can you frag from ANY part of it or does it need to be a joint or bend, branch if you will, and only one at a time or can you take several pieces at once?
You can frag from any part you wish to; I always cut the donor where it will look the best after cutting. You can cut as many pieces as you like, softies are very hardy and can withstand alot of abuse.
Do you let them heal inside the main tank? I noticed you said you dont want to cut while in the main tank because of toxin release, so is the donor going to be releasing toxins too?
I don't cut it inside the main tank if I can help it, but it really doesn't hurt one way or the other. If it's a rock by itself and I can take it out, I'll do so, but if the donor coral is attached to a non-removable piece of rock, I'll cut it with scissors or a razor blade.
Im sorry for being an idiot, but Im really really new at this..
No problem, we all start out as newbies!!! Glad I could help!

[dsanfilippo]

Do you find that there is any toxin release with the finger leathers when being cut in the tank??

Also, how large of a frag can you cut off at one time? I have a really large leather that I NEED to frag. It is on the bottom of my 120, and today the first finger just broke the surface...this guy is huge. Thanks for the help!!
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii82/dts307/CIMG1894.jpg

[Bkndsdl]

Do you find that there is any toxin release with the finger leathers when being cut in the tank??
I've cut several softies at one time in my tank, and although I could never be absolutely sure there are no adverse effects, I haven't noticed any. I pretty much scalped two large leathers in a 300g before, and didn't notice any adverse effects there either.

how large of a frag can you cut off at one time? I have a really large leather that I NEED to frag.

Man, that's a big one! I'd love to have a frag of that, that's a unique looking devil's hand.

I've cut some big leathers before, pretty much down to the base stalk, and haven't had any problems. This was on a 300g system. Before cutting frags off a big donor, you need to realize it will prob look pretty ugly for a while. I usually try to cut the larger frags closer to the back of the coral first, then selectively cut frags in the front to hide the cuts as good as possible. If you're not worried about aesthetics and are looking to get as many frags as possible, cut 'em as small as you like, but it would be easier to handle frags larger than an inch or two.

HTH!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11562489#post11562489 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by lvpd186
Nice write up, I look forward to seeing future fraggin'!
Thanks! I'll be fragging some mushrooms pretty soon, preparing for a move right now so I'll post as soon as things get settled.

[dsanfilippo]

Thanks again for the help...I would be happy to trade frags of this guy once they get settled in. I think I will start tomorrow...Would you recommend doing anything to the water?? Carbon, additives, etc? I assume just putting the frags back in the display for growout is OK??

[tanyashankles]

Thank you for your great advice, Im anxious to start.. My devils hand is pretty large too but nowhere in the league of that one above! That thing is amazing! Mine is on a rocks of its own, the whole base sits on 2 small rocks, so that half of the base is on one, and the other half is on another, and the rocks are (obviously) touching, being held together by the coral. Do you think it would hurt it if I cut it right there, to separate the two rocks? It is forked right there also... Here is a pic to show you if I can find one that will show the base(wow my coral has grown so much since these pics were taken! It is alot bigger now, it is twice that size)
...http://<ahref="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=100_1110.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/100_1110.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a> http://<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=100_1113.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/100_1113.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11591825#post11591825 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
Do you think it would hurt it if I cut it right there, to separate the two rocks?
That would be the perfect place to start. I would cut it right there with a razor blade, then use a set of diagonal cutters to break the rock in two. Then, I would cut a few of the larger branches off and attach them to rocks as I did with the sinularia. You should have a few good sized frags when you're done!

Are you sure that's a devil's hand? It sure looks like a type of finger leather to me, but I could be mistaken.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11591687#post11591687 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dsanfilippo Would you recommend doing anything to the water?? Carbon, additives, etc? I assume just putting the frags back in the display for growout is OK??
For that big of a job, I think I'd run some carbon. Just in case. Putting them back in the display is just fine. If you're doing the needle and thread method, they'll be just fine anywhere you want to put them, but I usually find a place on the sandbed that has a little less flow.

Let me know how it turns out!! I'd love a frag if you could spare one, just let me know!

[dsanfilippo]

Sounds good, not to hijack your thread...but I will post some progress pics when i decide to start. Hopefully i can buy some rock rubble tomorrow and get started...how many pieces do you think i can cut off the main piece at once?? I was thinking of doing one decent size cut off the mother and then splitting that into two or three smaller pieces. To minimize stress on the mother.

[jasert39]

great explanation, thanks a lot. Wish there were more posts like this one around this forum.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11592255#post11592255 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dsanfilippo
how many pieces do you think i can cut off the main piece at once?? I was thinking of doing one decent size cut off the mother and then splitting that into two or three smaller pieces. To minimize stress on the mother.
You could cut the longer fingers off at near the base, then cut those up all the way up, kinda like cutting a sausage or loaf of bread, and each one of those would be a frag. Or, you could just attach the finger to a rock. You can literally cut them up as small as you want, and they'll all grow. Seriously, you probably could have as much as 100+ frags there; Is that a standard 120? If it is, those fingers have gotta be almost 16" long!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11592370#post11592370 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jasert39
great explanation, thanks a lot. Wish there were more posts like this one around this forum.
Jasert, thanks alot. I started this thread because I knew how hard it was for me to get info when I first started!

[dsanfilippo]

Yea...they are really, really big. I probably should have done this about 2 years ago.

[tanyashankles]

[QUOTE]Are you sure that's a devil's hand? It sure looks like a type of finger leather to me, but I could be mistaken

No Im not sure of anything at this point :confused: That is what it said on the glass of the tank I bought if from in a little bitty local pet store. They are also selling me individual mushrooms for 1.00 a piece... I dont think they know much because other fish places say :eek1: :eek2: a buck a piece! Buy them and bring them to me and I will buy them from you! lol... So I will send a newer picture on here after while and you can tell me what you think. My pictures dont come out nearly as good as the ones on here that are lucky enough to have digital SLR cameras, but maybe it will be good enough to identify it. It is bigger and more extended fingers now....Thank you so much for all your help, I start my fragging TODAY!! YAY!! (poor coral doesnt know what its in for...:mixed: :D

[tanyashankles]

I did it everyone! YAY! *bowing* I have never seen my coral look quite so sad before though..:( I was so scared to cut it because I felt guilty. But I did it. Split the whole thing at the fork, then cut 2 decent frags off of the smaller side so that the smaller side ended up a frag itself. But they look good, Im proud of myself. Now I want to go buy more corals so I can frag some more in the future. Anyway I have them on live rock rubble pieces and all of them inside a clear plastic container at the bottom of my DT. Is that right? Thank you for all your help! Tanya

[rbrusletto]

congrats on fragging!

this is an awesome thread for starters.. leathers are great for anyone just starting out... I dont use the fishing line trick(though I might, looks cool) I use the old rubble in a bin and let them attach themselves. I'm also currently using the wedding veil to attach a few pieces

[dsanfilippo]

Fragged mine today too...took off a decent sized finger on the opposite side from the previous pic. I did the fishing line method for it, but I didn't really think it worked out well for me...how tight does it need to be to the rock?? I really had a tough time trying to tie it somewhat snug with slimy hands and line. Is there a trick to it? The mother is already looking great though. When (IF??) this frag takes it should be really nice. Probably about 6" tall, with to good sized branches - and you can't even tell its missing from the mother...so that goes to show how big this mother is( ...pun intended) Thanks for everyones help. pics soon

[ridinfast03]

Good job guys on fragging for your first time.
Cutting leathers will release toxins in your tank though. Pick up a copy of calfos book of progation and you can read some more about it or on here as well. For larger systems it isn't as dangerous due to the larger water column but for small tanks you could have problems. Definately run some carbon for a couple of days afterwards if you are forced to cut in tank. Cabbage leathers can be deadly towards other specimens if the conditions are right. If anyone is near the indianapolis area I would be willing to trade leather for leather if interested. I cut about 15 frags and hope to have nice specimens in about 3 months.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11598931#post11598931 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
I did it everyone! YAY!
Congrats!
Now I want to go buy more corals so I can frag some more in the future.
Addictive, isn't it?
I have them on live rock rubble pieces and all of them inside a clear plastic container at the bottom of my DT. Is that right?
That will do fine. I'm assuming the container has holes in the side for flow? They don't need alot, but they need some.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11601334#post11601334 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dsanfilippo
I did the fishing line method for it, but I didn't really think it worked out well for me...how tight does it need to be to the rock?? I really had a tough time trying to tie it somewhat snug with slimy hands and line. Is there a trick to it?
No trick...I sometimes make the first knot in the fishing line before I have the rock in place; kinda like make the loop, then put the rock in the circle of the loop, then tighten it. Not too tight so the fishing line cuts through the coral, but snug enough that it won't slip off the rock. Then I make the second knot, and pull it pretty tight. Then, if there's room, I make a second tie with a second piece of fishing line perpendicular to the first one.

The coral doesn't have to have the base touching the rock, it can be touching on the side as well.
Thanks for everyones help. pics soon
You're welcome, can't wait to see pics!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11601159#post11601159 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rbrusletto
congrats on fragging!

this is an awesome thread for starters.. leathers are great for anyone just starting out... I dont use the fishing line trick(though I might, looks cool) I use the old rubble in a bin and let them attach themselves. I'm also currently using the wedding veil to attach a few pieces

Thanks, I think I did what I wanted with this thread, to help people start fragging without having to search and search and search and ask questions for weeks like I did.......

I use tool alot too, and I think that's what I'll use on my next frag attempt, a mushroom.

Thanks for the comments!

[tanyashankles]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11609244#post11609244 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Bkndsdl
Congrats!

Addictive, isn't it?

That will do fine. I'm assuming the container has holes in the side for flow? They don't need alot, but they need some.

Thank you! And yes addictive it is, cant wait to see how my lil guys turn out.
There is no holes for flow but it is topless. No lid or anything, just hi sides to keep too much water flow from my power head from bothering them. Its one of those critter keepers things, hard plastic with handle pink lid with holes in it? Well I just used the container without the lid. I will take pics and show you to make sure it is enough water flow... I have all three frags in there, and I put the mother back where she was before the 'surgery'... Does she need to be shielded too? Thanks a bunch!!

[dsanfilippo]

Well, as promised, here are a few pics of my first fragging endeavours.

First...the cutting site...
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii82/dts307/CIMG1984.jpg

The new frag...
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii82/dts307/CIMG1982.jpg

I think I could probably make about 50 of these frags at this size- about 3" tall each...anyone interested in doing some trading...?

[ridinfast03]

Possibly where are you located? Probably shoud pm me back to make sure I see it

[mspad]

Awesome thread, Thank you so much.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11654163#post11654163 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mspad
Awesome thread, Thank you so much.

mspad, glad I could help!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11609433#post11609433 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
There is no holes for flow but it is topless. No lid or anything, just hi sides to keep too much water flow from my power head from bothering them. Its one of those critter keepers things, hard plastic with handle pink lid with holes in it? Well I just used the container without the lid.
I'd definitely put some holes in it, or make some other container with holes in it. They need some kind of flow, and although it seems like an open top would have some flow, it's very very small flow if any......
I have all three frags in there, and I put the mother back where she was before the 'surgery'... Does she need to be shielded too?
The mother colony will be just fine in any part of the tank. It's the ones that are separated from the mother that have the most stressful time of it..........

Waiting on those pics!:D

[Bkndsdl]

Ok, I had a bit of time this week and decided to frag a mushroom. I had a free floating green-dot mushroom making his way around the tank, and I’ve been having a lot of people wanting some of these so I snatched him up.

First things first – there are several different methods people use to attach mushrooms. The method I’ve found to work really well is the tool, or wedding veil method. Basically, you wrap the frag and a rock in the tool, tie it securely, and let it set for a couple of weeks. The most important thing to remember when using this method is not getting the tool too tight and squishing the frag through the holes. All you want to do is keep the frag in contact with the rock and to keep the frag from shifting.

Ok, now I get my tools ready: my trusty frag pan, which has been marked so as not to confuse it with the other pans in the house. I also keep it separate from the other pans. I’ll also need a pair of scissors (marked and kept separate as well), some tool, and some small rubber bands. You can get these at any dollar store or in WallyWorld.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/rubber_bands.jpg

I also have a bunch of these jello dispensers; they are the perfect size, and are cheap. This is where we’ll be placing our frags to heal; drill or cut some holes in the side for flow. I have some fishing line handy as well.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/cup_line.jpg

I’ve got a towel handy as well. Now, down to business: here’s the donor mushroom. I’ve got a bunch of these in my tank, and they grow like crazy:

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/donor_shroom.jpg

Now, when you take a mushroom out of your tank, it will immediately begin to secrete slime; LOTS of it. It will be hard to hold, so I dab it off a bit with a towel. I couldn’t take a pic of it in my hand, but you just pick it up, palm up, with the base between your index finger and your middle finger, and the disc on top of your fingers. Spread your fingers a bit, and cut the mushroom in half, making sure to cut the mouth in half. THIS IS NOT EASY. It will want to slip and slide, but if you cut it quickly and use your thumb to keep it in position, it will cut pretty straight.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/shroom_2.jpg

Now, take those two pieces and cut them in half as well. You can repeat the cutting as much as you want, but you need to get a bit of the mouth in each piece. Four pieces is usually about all I can get.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/shroom_4.jpg

Now comes the tricky part, attaching them to your rocks. Rock selection is very important. The ideal rock is a rock that has a dimple or recessed area in it. The reason for this is to keep the tool from cutting through your frag. If you place the frag in the dimple, the tool will act as a cage and keep the frag in the dimple. However, there are times when you don’t have appropriate dimples in rocks; just remember to keep the tool loose enough so as not to smash the frag, but tight enough so it won’t come off.

First, place your frag on the rock. Simple enough, right? Remember, this thing’s still full of slime. I take the towel and put it on the frag, then pick the towel and frag up, then place the frag on the rock. I then use something to hold the frag to the rock, like the scissors, then lift the towel away.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/shroom_on_rock.jpg

Next comes the tool. Cut a piece big enough to cover your rock and be able to be bundled on the back. Place it over the frag and rock, and pull it LIGHTLY together on the other side of the rock. Place either a rubber band on the bundled tool, or place rubber bands on either side of the frag, or tie the tool with fishing line. After wrapping each frag, cut off the excess tool on the bottom.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/tied_frag.jpg

Now, place the frags in the container you’ve chosen. Arrange them so that the frags are facing up, and so that they can’t move around or roll around in the container. Place some extra rubble in there to position them inside the container.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/arranged_cup.jpg

Now, if you have hermits and other critters like I have, you know they get into everything. For this reason, I put tool over the top of the container to keep them out. I secure it to the top with a plastic zip tie and cut the excess tool off. The lip on the jello cup keeps the tool on.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/finished_cup.jpg

Now set it in a place with low flow, and wait at least two weeks until you cut the tool off. Don’t worry, I’ll post about that when the time comes!

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/placed_cup.jpg

Hope this helps, and if you have any questions feel free to ask!

[pimpinitup6969]

great thread i have been wanting to frag stuff for a long time just havent had instruction i thought was proper. now i feel totally comfortable with trying it? i have some ricordeas i would like to do everyone i know has been dying to get their hands on some. anything else in the works?

Matt

[pimpinitup6969]

possibly some zoa's???

Matt

[Bkndsdl]

Matt, thanks for the comments! I do plan on fragging a few zoas soon, and I'll document it as well.

[Bkndsdl]

tanyashankles, dsanfilippo, how are your frags doing?

[LovinDaReef]

Very good step by step guide, this is very helpful.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11808373#post11808373 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by LovinDaReef
Very good step by step guide, this is very helpful.

Thanks, that's what I had hoped to accomplish!

[tanyashankles]

They are doing great, well, three of them are, the fourth one is lost somewhere in my tank, lol... Probably just fine wherever it is, but I cant monitor because I cant find it, oops... I had bought some frags on ebay from a seller that were terrible. The frag was of colt coral, only about 1/16 inch thick, and 1/4 inch long, I could barely see the thing, it took me about 5 minutes to find it and when I finally did find it, about 10 minutes after being in my tank it fell off its rock rubble mount thing and it too is now lost in my tank. However that I know I will never find unless it miraculously grows without being picked up in my overflow. The star polyps I got from him were ok about 15 polyps, but it too fell off of its mount and I had to glue it to get it to stay. Geez. But I am proud to say my own frags are slowly coming out of their depression, staying open a little longer and healing nicely, if the red slime would stay away from its scars. Quick question... Ok 2 questions.. Why am I getting red slimey bubbly algae stuff coating my rocks and (at this point Im just blowing them off with a turkey baster) can I get rid of it? It keeps growing right on the cut area of my frags. Question 2 is the frags I cut are fairly large, like 3 inch with about 8 to 10 branches, or arms, or whatever they are called (this is a finger leather) so should I frag one of them down even further? They dont seem to be thriving as they were before, so I want to make sure they are healthy before brutalizing them again.. Thanks for listening!!! Tanya

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11817038#post11817038 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
Why am I getting red slimey bubbly algae stuff coating my rocks and (at this point Im just blowing them off with a turkey baster) can I get rid of it? It keeps growing right on the cut area of my frags.
How long has your tank been set up? Sounds like a bit of cyano......if your tank hasn't been set up for a while, usually it will go away on its own. If you change your flow direction, it could help it a bit as well. I'm no expert on cyano, I normally don't see it unless the tank is a new setup; I usually leave it alone and it goes away on its own. Maybe someone with a little more insight could chime in?

the frags I cut are fairly large, like 3 inch with about 8 to 10 branches, or arms, or whatever they are called (this is a finger leather) so should I frag one of them down even further? They dont seem to be thriving as they were before, so I want to make sure they are healthy before brutalizing them again.
They've had more than enough time to recover, so if you wanted to you could cut it some more. I usually try to wait a couple days before I cut them again, but that's just me.
Thanks for listening!!! Tanya
No prob, glad I could help!

[Kkubiak]

How would you cut a toad stool. At the neck or like a pizza triangle out of the head?

[tanyashankles]

It is a fairly young tank, only set up and running about 6 months. It only bothers me when it becomes intrusive, and hounds in on my zoa's and my other corals, or too near my anenome, I really dont know if it would hurt the anenome but I have heard other people say it can 'choke' corals. If let go that is... Anyway it seems to be a bit heavier than green hair algae, because as soon as you blow it with the baster, it sinks right back to the bottom. it doesnt float around the tank like the green stuff does when you scrape it. But if it will go away on its own then thats terrific. Hopefully it will... Thank you again! Tanya

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11824167#post11824167 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Kkubiak
How would you cut a toad stool. At the neck or like a pizza triangle out of the head?

Both, actually......you could cut off the head, and the stalk would grow another head. Then, you could cut the head like a pizza and each 'slice' would be a new frag. OR - you could cut the head in squares. OR you could leave the head on and cut off pieces of the rim, all the way around. There are many different ways to frag a toadstool; the way I frag mine is to take a pair of scissors and cut a small, thin piece off the back of the toadstool, so it doesn't look too bad. The sewing method is what I would use to attach the frags, no matter how you cut them.

HTH!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11829869#post11829869 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
It is a fairly young tank, only set up and running about 6 months.

hmm...........6 months is still kinda young. I might check around RC and see if anyone else might be able to chime in on how to get rid of it.....I would hate to have your tank go south because of bad information.

[inkmates]

thanks for the info, now where did I put that sewing kit and where is my tackle box?

[tanyashankles]

I have another question... I purchased a nice zoa colony, hundreds of polyps, just about a week ago. Should I frag it (Im kinda itchin' to) or let it settle in for a while first? Does it matter? It has some great fragging spots, it is branch rock... There are pics of it in my gallery...Thanks in advance!!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11883875#post11883875 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
I have another question... I purchased a nice zoa colony, hundreds of polyps, just about a week ago. Should I frag it (Im kinda itchin' to) or let it settle in for a while first? Does it matter?
Tanya, I wouldn't hesitate to frag them. I've fragged some corals I got from the lfs even before I put them in my tank! Esp zoas; when they're closed up, it's easier to see the best areas to frag them.

NOTE: Fragging zoas can release palytoxin. I would make sure you have eye protection, ie goggles (not glasses, don't count), and gloves. When you cut or squeeze zoas, they can squirt out at you. Be careful!

[tanyashankles]

Great! I will start today.. My husband works in Borax production and has safety goggles, that I hate, but will wear, and I have latex gloves, so for the afternoon I guess I will look like a biochemist or something...lol...

[tanyashankles]

Wow, that is awesome. I came on here to find out how to frag a mushroom, and whaddaya know, here it is, from mike, the one I learned the leather fragging from! I bought a loose mushroom from the LFS again for a buck, A beautiful turquoise with green stripes. Kind of watermelon mushroom I think, but anyway, I was going to frag it before mounting it, instead of removing some from colony, at least for my first time. I have a question or two though. One, How do I frag one that is attached rather well to its rock for fragging? I have some frillys (metallic green and a lavendar) but Im afraid I will kill them because they are doing so well! And 2, How do you get them to attach to larger rocks when they are growing and covering the rubble once they are making their own colony? I have a HUGE zoanthid colony, and the bottom is covered in zoas that are growing huge base's to reach for the light... I have thought of fragging those and Im not sure where to start! I am posting some pics of the first frag I did from your fragging 101 original, the leather. I will search my pc for pics and if not then I will take some fresh pictures. Anyway when I got the loose mushroom, I also picked up a loose capsule polyp, and some type of loose star polyps or perhaps a sm. piece of xenia, but I was wondering how I could mount those? Just put it in the little jello cup with lr rubble maybe? I have some tool, would that be the best way? Thanks so much! Tanya

[tanyashankles]

PS I am also going to tackle that zoa colony...

[tanyashankles]

This is the zoas I will be fragging...http://<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=zoacolonylg.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/zoacolonylg.jpg" border="0" alt="My beautiful Zoas"></a>

[Roy G. Biv]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11773942#post11773942 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Bkndsdl


Ok, now I get my tools ready: my trusty frag pan, which has been marked so as not to confuse it with the other pans in the house.
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/rubber_bands.jpg


Do you really need to mark that pan as "Not for cooking use"?
What do your cooking pans look like. :lol:

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11906299#post11906299 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
Wow, that is awesome. I came on here to find out how to frag a mushroom, and whaddaya know, here it is, from mike, the one I learned the leather fragging from!
.......what can I say...........:cool:
One, How do I frag one (mushroom) that is attached rather well to its rock for fragging?
If you wait until it's fully open, it will show some of the trunk or base stalk. Cut it right there. You want to cut the dome from the stalk. You might need to get a razor blade and slice it little by little.
2, How do you get them to attach to larger rocks when they are growing and covering the rubble once they are making their own colony?
Epoxy. I use the tube kind, the kind you get at Lowes or Home Depot. It's in the shape of a tube, a colored outer tube with the center white. You slice off a piece, knead it in your fingers until it's a solid color, then mash it on the rock that your frag is on, and then mash that to the spot in the tank you want it.
I have a HUGE zoanthid colony, and the bottom is covered in zoas that are growing huge base's to reach for the light... I have thought of fragging those and Im not sure where to start!
That's the best place to start, because they are already wanting to detach.
I am posting some pics of the first frag I did from your fragging 101 original, the leather.
Can't wait to see 'em!
I also picked up a loose capsule polyp, and some type of loose star polyps or perhaps a sm. piece of xenia, but I was wondering how I could mount those? Just put it in the little jello cup with lr rubble maybe? I have some tool, would that be the best way?
That's how I'd start!

[Bkndsdl]

Do you really need to mark that pan as "Not for cooking use"?
What do your cooking pans look like. :lol:

.....never can be too safe. Lol, it didn't look like that until AFTER I started using it.....:lol:

[tanyashankles]

Epoxy. I use the tube kind, the kind you get at Lowes or Home Depot.[B]

Ok so my husband brought home an epoxy stick from work, new, he brought it for me to use, and I was wondering if that would be safe for my tank, it is just regular stick that you knead to activate.. That should work if the home depot kind will, right? And BTW, my pan looks just like yours... lol... Some of my cooking ones too! (Just cant bring myself to throw them out...) :rollface:

[james37128]

Great thread, can't wait to see the next fragging session.

[clownFish1313]

Sweet thread i have a red mush. im thinking of fraging
I don't know how good that pix is but its the lower mush.
http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh3/rroe/DSCF0627.jpg

[tanyashankles]

Ok its your pest again...lol... Okey dokey, I am ready to frag the zoas (I know I said that 10 times now, But I mean it this time) And I was wondering about the ones on the bottom that I told you were reaching for the light? Well I got a good look at them today, and the base of some of them are looonng, like 2-3 inches, and Im not exactly sure how to tackle it. Will it be ok just on a rock or should I tool it? I have been accused of worrying too much, fyi... lol...

[tanyashankles]

This is Mom...
<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=mothercolonyleather.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/mothercolonyleather.jpg" border="0" alt="This is mommy"></a>
This is the smallest one:
<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=growingfrag.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/growingfrag.jpg" border="0" alt="small frag"></a>
This is first cut:
<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=smallleatherfrag.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/smallleatherfrag.jpg" border="0" alt="frag #1"></a>

[tanyashankles]

and by the way, I did it! I tackled one of my zoa colonies, and mounted some of my frags on larger rocks using epoxy, Im kinda scared to test the strength cuz it sure didnt want to adhere when it was wet but I forced it together, and THANKFULLY was wearing goggles because I got squirted a good one right in the face..lol.. It was cussing me out in its own way...Thanks so much for all your help!

[oxbeard]

Thanks for the steps and pics. I've got a fairly huge Devil's Hand that is definitely going to need the fragging treatment. Had no idea where to start, but this thread has been a big help. Don't feel as hesitant to tackle it now.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11910211#post11910211 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
Ok so my husband brought home an epoxy stick from work, new, he brought it for me to use, and I was wondering if that would be safe for my tank, it is just regular stick that you knead to activate.. That should work if the home depot kind will, right?
Yep, same stuff. It's the same stuff that crazy infomercial guy sells, I think it's called superputty or something.......
And BTW, my pan looks just like yours...
lol. That little bit of rust won't hurt a thing!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11911471#post11911471 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by james37128
Great thread, can't wait to see the next fragging session.
Thanks! I have some zoas I need to frag, they'll be next!
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11913195#post11913195 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by clownFish1313
Sweet thread
Thanks, glad I could help! Good luck with your mushroom, and let me know if I can clear anything up for you. Post some pics!

[Bkndsdl]

Long story short, I had to make a quick run to Tampa for work Friday, so I haven't been able to post before now. Before I left, I took the mushrooms out of the container, carefully unwrapped the tool from the frags, and set them in a low-flow area of the tank. They've attached, and are doing quite well.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11913794#post11913794 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
Ok its your pest again...lol...
You're not a pest. Actually, I look forward to any and all posts, I've never had a multiple page thread before!!

Okey dokey, I am ready to frag the zoas And I was wondering about the ones on the bottom that I told you were reaching for the light? Well I got a good look at them today, and the base of some of them are looonng, like 2-3 inches, and Im not exactly sure how to tackle it. Will it be ok just on a rock or should I tool it?
It depends. If the base has already attached to some sand or some rubble close, then I would cut them off close to the original rock, and superglue the sand or rubble they've attached to onto another rock. If they haven't grabbed any sand or rubble, then I'd use the tool, or maybe even a loose-fitting rubber band.

I have been accused of worrying too much, fyi... lol...
No problem! So have I!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11916757#post11916757 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
and by the way, I did it! Thanks so much for all your help!
Guess I should have read first, then posted.

Great! Let's see some pics!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11925380#post11925380 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by oxbeard
Thanks for the steps and pics. I've got a fairly huge Devil's Hand that is definitely going to need the fragging treatment. Had no idea where to start, but this thread has been a big help. Don't feel as hesitant to tackle it now.

Thanks! Let me know if you have any questions, and by all means, post some pics/updates!!

[tanyashankles]

BEFORE....
http://<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=zoacolonylg2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/zoacolonylg2.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>
AND AFTER:
<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=pretties.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/pretties.jpg" border="0" alt="Not sure, I think eagle eyes"></a>
Close UPS:
<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=eagleeyes.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/eagleeyes.jpg" border="0" alt="I think eagle eyes"></a>
<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=greeneggs.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/greeneggs.jpg" border="0" alt="Green eggs"></a>

[tanyashankles]

My colony looks so much smaller now, it is sad.. But doing well, all are receiving the amt of light they need. The bottom ones were about 3 inches long from trying to find light... But they are perfect little polyps, and beautiful as ever! Thanks again!!

[ducklabdad]

great thread!!! Keep it Going .

Question: I have a bunch of busted up old Sand Dollars and old dead coral pieces in an tank with a bunch of macro algae would the snd dollar pieces and dead coral scraps be OK for attaching frags??.

[tanyashankles]

Im no expert but I think yes, as long as they are fully cured... Right evry1?

[fatrip]

yes, they are the best thing to use IMO. it looks so much more natural then a plug or a disk...

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11944643#post11944643 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ducklabdad
great thread!!! Keep it Going .
Thanks!
Question: I have a bunch of busted up old Sand Dollars and old dead coral pieces in an tank with a bunch of macro algae would the snd dollar pieces and dead coral scraps be OK for attaching frags??.
As the others said, that would make perfect rubble for frags.

[vetdog]

great thread. very helpful

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11944282#post11944282 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
My colony looks so much smaller now, it is sad.. But doing well, all are receiving the amt of light they need. The bottom ones were about 3 inches long from trying to find light... But they are perfect little polyps, and beautiful as ever! Thanks again!!
They look great. I love the look of rocks that are covered with zoanthids. Looks like you've got quite a bit there!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11949962#post11949962 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by vetdog
great thread. very helpful
Thanks, glad I could help!!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11916757#post11916757 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
I tackled one of my zoa colonies, and mounted some of my frags on larger rocks using epoxy, Im kinda scared to test the strength cuz it sure didnt want to adhere when it was wet but I forced it together
That's the bad thing about using epoxy. I usually let it set for about 1 minute after kneading to let it stiffen up a bit before using. It also helps if the two rocks that you're joining have very porous surfaces so the epoxy gets into the little cracks and crevises. Also, it helps to dry both rocks off with a towel.

Most of the time I use superglue on zoas, but usually I'm making small frags so I can take the rocks out of the tank. Epoxy's the way to go when you're having to work inside the tank. Also, there are usually holes in rocks in the tank, and you can put some polyps in those as well.

[weaver1429]

Cool thread! I have a question for you. I have a fairly large toadstool that the neck is about 8" tall and the head is about 6". It appears to struggle with the weight of the head. If I cut the neck shorter will pieces of the neck grow out new heads? Trying to decide how to do surgery on this piece. Thanks

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11958449#post11958449 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by weaver1429
Cool thread! I have a question for you. I have a fairly large toadstool that the neck is about 8" tall and the head is about 6". It appears to struggle with the weight of the head. If I cut the neck shorter will pieces of the neck grow out new heads? Trying to decide how to do surgery on this piece. Thanks

Thanks!

When you cut the head from the stalk, the stalk will grow a new head and the head can be attached to a rock to grow a new stalk. How well they do - as always - depends on flow and water quality, but with a toadstool that big, I've got to assume things are going pretty ok in your tank!

[edandsandy]

Great thread

[BeesGoneWild]

This is an excellent thread, I like the idea of using fishing line and a needle. Im a rubber band man myself but i think ill try this method this week. Two thumbs up :)

[rickofco]

great thread I have some mushrooms that i think i will frag.

thanks for the info.

[Bkndsdl]

An easy coral to grow, zoanthids are very colorful and hardy, making them very attractive to new reef tank owners. The color patterns are almost endless, and some have fetched quite a penny. Some of us, me included, can’t afford to get these primo frags in bulk, so we have to buy small patches of 1-5 polyps (most I’ve ever paid for them was $5 a polyp, but I’ve seen some a lot higher than that!). If you know how to frag these, you can not only get them spread out in your tank quickly, but you can also recoup some of the $$ you spent acquiring them in the first place by selling off some. They can come in handy at frag swaps as well.

Here’s some green skirt, orange body, bright orange-mouthed zoas I got in a trade. There’s two rocks full of them, and I wanted to start breaking them up (I also bought some baby-blue zoas a few days ago; they cost me $5 a polyp, and there are 5 polyps. Not something I do very often but I just couldn’t pass these babies up, as I knew they wouldn’t last very long).

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/zoa_orig_frags.jpg

Ok, first things first: Fragging zoas can release palytoxin. I would make sure you have eye protection, i.e. goggles (glasses don't count), and gloves. When you cut or squeeze zoas, they can squirt out at you. Be careful!

Next, let’s take our rock out of the tank and examine it very closely. You want to break the rock where you will disturb the zoas the least. Sometimes, the zoas are growing separately, not attached by anything; in that case just break the rock in half. If they are attached to each other, you will want to cut the rock between the zoas where they are attached by membrane. There’s no need to cut through a polyp, because as soon as you take it out of the water the polyps will begin to close showing you their base, giving you plenty of areas to cut through without damaging a polyp. Pick the spot that will make the most of what you want to do; you can cut the rock into several pieces with many polyps on each, or break them up into individual polyps if you want.

Take your trusty diagonal cutter and break the rock at the point you’ve chosen. When you are breaking the rock, you’re also cutting the membrane of the zoas. In this picture, I'm cutting the rock between two polyps.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/diag_cutting.jpg

If you have zoas that are held together loosely by membrane and a few pieces of rock rubble, you can use a pair of scissors to cut them apart.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/zoas_cut1.jpg

If you just want to separate a rock into more rocks, you’re done after this step. If you want to spread them out in your tank, you can take these small pieces and place them in different holes and crevices in the rocks.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/zoas_in_hole.jpg

If there are no holes to stick them in, you’ll have to attach them in the tank with epoxy. More on that later.

[Bkndsdl]

If you want to glue these zoas to different rocks to make many frags, then you’ll need some glue. The type I use is Loctite Super Glue Gel.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/superglue.jpg

The gel is thick, and it allows you some time to get the zoa positioned just right. I only use the super glue when I’m working outside of the tank with frags; I’ll explain the method I use for in-tank gluing in a bit.

Now that you’ve broken your zoas up, it’s time to glue them to your new rock. First, cut the rock the zoas are on down to the smallest size possible. This is so you won’t have a top heavy rock that’s always falling over, and it looks better when they grow out. Dab the base rock and zoa rock off with a towel. Then, apply a liberal amount of glue to the base rock. Make sure the base rock will sit on its own without toppling over.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/glue_base.jpg

Now, put a small amount of glue on the bottom of the zoa rock. Be careful not to get any glue on the zoas; it won’t hurt, but it keeps them closed for a while until the glue falls off. Gloves here will prevent gluing your finger to the rock!

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/glue_frag.jpg

Next, carefully put the zoa rock on the base rock and push the glued rocks together.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/frag_on_rock.jpg

Next, I like to give myself some insurance and apply a small amount of glue all along the two rocks so I’m assured to have a good bond.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/more_glue.jpg

Now, let that sit for a few minutes. The glue will harden where it is exposed to air first, and gradually dry all the way through. When you can’t move the zoa rock anymore, place the newly fragged zoas in the tank. Done!

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/zoas_glued.jpg
http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/zoas_glued1.jpg

Hope this helps, and if you have any questions feel free to ask!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11986419#post11986419 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by BeesGoneWild
This is an excellent thread, I like the idea of using fishing line and a needle. Im a rubber band man myself but i think ill try this method this week. Two thumbs up :)

Thanks, let us know how it works out!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11986525#post11986525 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rickofco
great thread I have some mushrooms that i think i will frag.

thanks for the info.

No problem, glad to help! Let us know how your fragging goes!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11983264#post11983264 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by edandsandy
Great thread

Thanks!

[Bkndsdl]

I explained earlier that I use epoxy when I have to attach frags to the rocks inside my tank. The type of epoxy I use is Loctite 5-Minute Epoxy. I am not an advocate of Loctite products, but they do seem to make everything I need for fragging.:D

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/epoxy_putty.jpg

This epoxy is very easy to use. You simply cut off the amount you want to use with a knife or with a pair of scissors, remove the plastic film, then knead the epoxy in your hands until the outer material – in this case, blue – and the inner material – white – are thoroughly mixed, forming an even colored ball. Let it set for about 30 seconds to 1 minute; it will get a bit hot. Note: this stuff will get on your fingers, and it's very hard to get off. Using gloves will keep that from happening.:rolleyes:

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/fresh_epoxy.jpg

Next, place your frag rock in the epoxy. You are trying to get the epoxy into the small pores in the rock. I wrap a bit of the epoxy around the top of the rock as well, so that it will hold the frag in place. Note: I used a rock with no frags on it here, because once you place your rock in the epoxy, you want to get it in the tank and in place as soon as possible, because it will cool rather quickly. I wasn't able to do that and take the picture at the same time, but you get the idea.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/frag_in_epoxy.jpg

Now it’s time to place our frag and the epoxy in the spot we’ve chosen. You want to select a spot that is porous, has a lot of craters or anything that will make the epoxy seep into the rock so it will not come loose after it dries. Flat, smooth surfaces don’t work too well. If you are trying to attach the epoxy somewhere that is relatively smooth, take another rock or something and scratch or score the area up, so as to make a better surface for the epoxy to hold on to.

http://bkndsdl1.home.mchsi.com/fishtank/fragging/epoxy_on_rock.jpg

The epoxy will harden up, and eventually will get coralline algae on it, and pretty soon you won’t be able to tell it from the original rock.

Hope this helps, and if you have any questions feel free to ask!

[Bkndsdl]

Had to post a few of these baby blue zoas I got. These aren't the best of pics, but they're still nice.

With flash:
http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee106/Bkndsdl/baby_blues1.jpg

Without flash:
http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee106/Bkndsdl/baby_blues.jpg

[aceheart1976]

this thread is soooooo cool. im learning alot from just watching what you have done and cant wait to get back home and try some stuff on my tanks

[aceheart1976]

oppps, double posted LOL

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12123225#post12123225 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by aceheart1976
this thread is soooooo cool. im learning alot from just watching what you have done and cant wait to get back home and try some stuff on my tanks

Thanks! Let us know how your fragging works out!

[aceheart1976]

actually, i got some loose shrooms from the lfs and got them all on rocks now a few has already attached themselves :)
crazy people at the lfs sold me a neon green ric thinking it was a shroom...... for $1 LOL

[davidandliz]

for zoas you can also scrape the top layer of rock from under the zoas and attatch that to another rock.. that way you dont have to break your rock and make it smaller./

[jason214]

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/026.jpg



http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/025.jpg


http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/024.jpg


http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/023.jpg

What was this last one again?
thanks,
jason

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12179270#post12179270 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jason214
What was this last one again?
thanks,
jason

Cool deal! The last one is a type of toadstool leather, not sure of the exact name.

[cjscott]

This is such a great thread! I got a piece of live rock when I started my tank that had a couple small colonies of zoas. I am excited to spread them around the tank and try and recoup some of my cost!

[jason214]

just fragged for the first time! cut single polyps from diff colored zoa's to get them all on the same rock. Did it last night and the polyps i cut are opening already. U gave me the confidence mike, thanks.

jason

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12190564#post12190564 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cjscott
This is such a great thread! I got a piece of live rock when I started my tank that had a couple small colonies of zoas. I am excited to spread them around the tank and try and recoup some of my cost!

Cool, glad I could help! Let us know how your fragging works out!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12215320#post12215320 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jason214
just fragged for the first time! cut single polyps from diff colored zoa's to get them all on the same rock. Did it last night and the polyps i cut are opening already. U gave me the confidence mike, thanks.

jason

Glad I could help! Did you frag some of those reds you got from me? How's all the frags doing?

[jason214]

hey mike,
Frags are doing great, the green sin. is attached and growing, The line is still in the toadstool, its hard to see if it is attached and i'm weary on taking it off prematurly. I'm not messen w/ those red zoa's, i like them and i don't want to mess them up. The shroom is stubborn, it looks good and attached, then i find it on the sand later, i've heard shrooms do that sometimes so.... I split a shroom that i already had a few of and its looking good, still don't know about risking it w/ a ric though. You still have them star polyps. My girlfriend liked them but was stubborn on saying something. You can pm me about it, i might have something you could be intrested in. Any way,
keep on reefen

jason

[jason214]

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/008-3.jpg

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/009-4.jpg

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/010-1.jpg

And the whole deal.
http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/jason21484/003-6.jpg

if ya see any intresting let me know

[Bkndsdl]

Cool deal, man! I've got some of those star polyps left, just let me know......

......are those some blue mushrooms in the right hand corner?

[only_mnh]

Great Job !!
I am in the process of setting up a 30 gallon tank for mushrooms and rics. I will post some pics for you in a little while.

[james37128]

Well I gave fragging of a shroom and ric a shot about 2 months ago. Problem was I glued instead of the fishing line method. They all fell off, I thought they were gone. After pulling every piece of rock out of the tank to re aquascape I found the 2 halves of the ric I cut and the 4 parts of the red shroom I cut up all grown up. I tried the fishing line but seems like my knots just aren't working (I never tied my own hook either). They keep slipping off the rocks I am attaching to. I am currently practicing my tieing techniques. But the good news ALL 6 frags are now accounted for!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12311695#post12311695 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by only_mnh
Great Job !!
I am in the process of setting up a 30 gallon tank for mushrooms and rics. I will post some pics for you in a little while.

Great, can't wait to see some pics!

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12312346#post12312346 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by james37128
Well I gave fragging of a shroom and ric a shot about 2 months ago. Problem was I glued instead of the fishing line method. They all fell off, I thought they were gone. After pulling every piece of rock out of the tank to re aquascape I found the 2 halves of the ric I cut and the 4 parts of the red shroom I cut up all grown up.

Sounds like some sucessful fragging to me!

I tried the fishing line but seems like my knots just aren't working (I never tied my own hook either). They keep slipping off the rocks I am attaching to. I am currently practicing my tieing techniques.

It does take some practice........I find that the smaller line I can find, the better. It helps sometimes to make your fishing line loop first, then put the rock in the loop instead of the other way around.

Good luck!

[jason214]

bumped to keep alive.........

[tanyashankles]

Here is some pictures of the frags I did, and some pictures of my tank since I upgraded to a 120 g long. My lighting has been upgraded, my sump, and just about everything. So in effect, my frags have had better healing with better water quality and lighting... Anyway, I thought I would show you some of the frags I have done since I first learned how in this 'fragging 101' thread. I have since done mushrooms, leathers, sps, zoas, palys, xenia (which is NOT easy to frag) and I am going to TRY to tackle a enchinopora chalice (I think it is) anyway that one Im kinda scared to do since it is going to have to be snapped or dremel'd.. Any suggestions? Anywho, thought I would show the frags I have done after learning here...<a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=leatherfrag.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/leatherfrag.jpg" border="0" alt="leather"></a> <a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=pretties.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/pretties.jpg" border="0" alt="Not sure, I think eagle eyes"></a> <a href="http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/?action=view&current=mothercolonyleather.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p271/tanyashankles/mothercolonyleather.jpg" border="0" alt="This is mommy"></a>

[yamaha racer]

so i just fragged yumas can i just put a rubber band over them? i dont have that mesh

[aqua_guru123]

do you have a pic of the shrooms you fragged earlier now all fragged and all?

[Bkndsdl]

Sorry, all.......In the last month I've sold my house and moved. It's been hectic, and a tank move is not fun, no matter how far.

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12586709#post12586709 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by yamaha racer
so i just fragged yumas can i just put a rubber band over them? i dont have that mesh

I know it's probably too late, but you could just get some sort of container that has flow through it, fill it with rubble, then put the frags in there. They will attach in about a week or two. Sometimes, they'll attach to two rocks; when they do that, just cut them up the middle (after they attach, of course) and then you'll have two more.

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12676334#post12676334 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by aqua_guru123
do you have a pic of the shrooms you fragged earlier now all fragged and all?

That I do.......along with a few other toadstool frags.

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee106/Bkndsdl/mushroom_after.jpg

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12519204#post12519204 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanyashankles
Here is some pictures of the frags I did, and some pictures of my tank since I upgraded to a 120 g long. My lighting has been upgraded, my sump, and just about everything. So in effect, my frags have had better healing with better water quality and lighting... Anyway, I thought I would show you some of the frags I have done since I first learned how in this 'fragging 101' thread. I have since done mushrooms, leathers, sps, zoas, palys, xenia (which is NOT easy to frag) and I am going to TRY to tackle a enchinopora chalice (I think it is) anyway that one Im kinda scared to do since it is going to have to be snapped or dremel'd.. Any suggestions? Anywho, thought I would show the frags I have done after learning here

Tanya, awesome! Glad I could help get you started. As far as the echino, cut through as much rock as you can with the dremel, then slowly tear the flesh apart. That's about all the help I can give there, except for take it slow, and before any cutting, study your piece really well and plan the cuts out as much as possible.

[Bkndsdl]

Well, I've been able to finally afford a bigger tank.........MUCH bigger. I've gone off and bought a 180 gallon (6'x2'x2'). I will take my time with it, and I do plan a build thread. I can't wait to see this thing set up!!

[jumpfreak26]

how would i go about fragging acans?

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12694389#post12694389 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jumpfreak26
how would i go about fragging acans?

I wouldn't know by experience, but here's a link to someone who does:

Reef Central 'Frag of the month': Fragging Acanthastrea (http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-09/fotm/index.php)

Reef Central usually has a Frag of the Month column, but I haven't seen one since October of last year.......

[KB3MMX]

Awesome Thread !!

BUMP

[Bkndsdl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12747370#post12747370 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by KB3MMX
Awesome Thread !!

Thanks!

[Mr. Reef]

Thank you for your generous contributions to the knowledge base, and for the encouragement.
:wave:

[g8rsnook]

great thred!!!!! going to prop some mushrooms real soon