Testing Real Coral at Home
How can I test my coral at home?
- Drop coral in milk. If it turns red, the coral is real.
- Tap the coral to check the sound.
- Use lemon juice or acid on a small area to see if it bubbles.
- Real coral has white flecks, holes, and feels heavy.
Identifying Real Coral Types
Branching corals build reefs:
- Branches have more branches.
- Silicate in an aquarium leads to brown gunk.
- Remove silicate to prevent diatoms growth.
Coral Polyps and Identification
Coral Polyps make branching, antler-like coral:
- Varieties have unique identification characteristics.
- Turmeric turns red on real coral.
- Examine the structure with a magnifying glass.
Real Coral Identification Methods
- Rub turmeric on coral. If it turns red, it is real.
- Use magnifying glass to check granules.
- Real coral should feel smooth and heavy.
- Real coral jewelry can be found on 1stDibs.
- Milk test indicates authenticity of coral.
Identifying Real Coral
How do you tell if coral is real?
- Real coral feels smooth and heavy.
- Drop it in milk; if it turns red, it’s real.
- Fakes are usually plastic or glass.
- Affordable coral often comes from the Philippines.
Additional Insights on Coral
- Water depth, clarity, and light spectrum affect coral growth.
- Good filtration aids in water clarity.
- Nutrients may not be necessary in established tanks.