Mangroves

Do mangroves need to be planted in the substrate, or can they grow on LR?

I imagine they would grow fine in live rock. I work in a lab with a girl who studies mangroves and is growing some in damp sand. I can ask her if you want.

If I'm correct Eric had his in just water lol and they were alive.

^Nick is correct as usual!

I took a sheet of styrofoam (inch thick?) and punched holes in it. The mangroves float and the roots grow longer and you get to see the roots.

I think the rule of thumb is that 2/3 thirds of the plant (from the base of the trunk up) needs to remain above water level at all time. Also, spray the mangroves with RO water at least twice a week to wash off the salt..

Awesome! Thanks guys!

They going to be in your macro tank? We need pics

The are in my macro tank! I'll take some pics soon...

I talked to that girl today. Assuming it's a Red Mangrove, she said it would probably do fine in Live Rock. She just told me to warn you they need LOTS of light and that depending on how well it thrives, some grow up to 3 feet/year. However, she does have a friend with one on their counter, and it's been about a foot tall for 2 years now. So it varies.

They look good so far. We'll see what happens.

3 feet a year in an aquarium is unheard of!

I think its due to us trying to keep our systems nutrient-free not nutrient-rich like the mangrove would prefer.

btw, i'm getting a pic craving here..

I'm planning on posting some pics in my showcase thread once I clean my aquarium and the new macros arrive. Be patient young one