coralSLover® FAQ
Order FAQ
What is coral aquaculture?
Coral aquaculture is the process of growing corals in controlled environments rather than collecting them from the wild. This ensures healthier, more vibrant corals adapted for home aquariums, while supporting sustainable reef practices. Choosing aquaculture corals is like choosing organic produce—quality and care are prioritized over cheap, mass-produced options. Aquaculture corals is the process of growing corals in controlled environments—such as indoor aquaculture systems—instead of collecting them from the wild. At coralSLover®, we propagate our corals in shore-based, recirculated saltwater systems to produce healthy, vibrant, and sustainable specimens for home aquariums.
Eco-Friendly: No wild harvesting—helps protect natural reefs.
Tank-Adapted: Aquacultured corals are hardier and already accustomed to aquarium life.
Sustainable Growth: Fragments from parent colonies are grown and farmed responsibly, similar to how nurseries grow plants.
What are the payment options?
PayPal, debit/credit card, Apple Pay…
How many corals can I order at the same time in one order?
There are no limits on any orders. Special orders are available—contact us with details and leave a note for preferences. Orders over $250 qualify for free overnight shipping via FedEx or USPS.
Do you combine orders?
Yes. We combine orders, including adding items the next day if the original order hasn’t shipped yet. You can combine items from Amazon, eBay, Etsy, TikTok, or Temu. At checkout, choose the “Combine with Existing Order” option to add items and save on shipping. This option must be selected at checkout.
Do you provide advice for reef beginners?
Yes. coralSLover® offers guides and tips for acclimation, lighting, water chemistry, and coral placement to help both beginners and experienced hobbyists maintain thriving reef tanks.
Can I order corals for multiple tanks?
Yes. There are no limits on the number of corals per order. You can place multiple corals for different tanks in one order, and we can combine shipments to save on shipping costs.
Are your corals reef-safe?
Yes. All coralSLover® corals are 100% reef-safe and aquaculture-grown, with no wild harvesting involved. They are adapted for home aquariums and safe for most reef fish and invertebrates.
Can I place a special request for rare corals?
Yes. coralSLover® can help source rare or unique corals. We grow our own corals in-house and do not sell wild-collected corals, but for special requests, we can access licensed wholesalers to obtain the same rare or unique species. Contact us with details, and we will assist in fulfilling your request while ensuring all corals meet our high standards for health and sustainability.
Where do you source your fish?
We source our fish through licensed wholesalers in the NY/NJ region, including CaptivFish. This allows us to hand-pick the healthiest, most unique, and rare species before they reach other stores. We don’t stock or collect large numbers of fish at our facility—our selection is limited and carefully chosen for quality.
Can I place a special request for rare or unique fish?
Yes! While we grow our own corals in-house, we can access licensed wholesalers to source rare or hard-to-find fish. Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll do our best to help you find it.
What water parameters do fish require?
Requirements vary by species. We provide general water parameter guidelines with each order. Maintaining proper salinity, temperature, and pH is important for the health and longevity of your fish.
Do you offer advice for fish care?
Absolutely! We’re happy to provide guidance on acclimation, tank setup, feeding, and general care to help your fish thrive.
Can I order multiple fish at once?
Yes! There are no limits on the number of fish per order. You can also combine fish orders with corals or other aquatic items to save on shipping.
Are your fish reef-safe?
Many of our fish are compatible with reef aquariums. Specific compatibility depends on the species and your tank setup. We provide guidance on which fish are reef-safe.
Shipping FAQ
How much does shipping cost?
We have multiple options:
FedEx or UPS overnight (next day delivery): flat rate $39.00 for all states
Special offer: 50% off overnight shipping, flat rate $17.50 for nearby states (parts of NY, NJ, CT, MD, DE, PA, RI, MA, NH, VT, ME) – check the map for eligibility
FedEx or UPS 2-day shipping: flat rate $17.50 for all states
Free shipping on orders over $250
How long will it take to get my order?
At coralSLover® we ship corals the same day if the order is placed by 2:00 PM EST. All corals are sent via UPS, FedEx, or USPS (for NY/NJ states) with 2-day or overnight shipping. Delivery days are Tuesday–Friday.
Do we send corals on weekends?
We can ship corals on weekends for an additional shipping fee. Please contact us for more information.
Do you ship internationally?
No, we currently ship within the United States and U.S. territories only.
Do you ship to Guam, Puerto Rico, Alaska, and Hawaii?
Yes! We ship to Guam, Puerto Rico, Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Enjoy a flat rate shipping fee of $60.00 via UPS, FedEx, or USPS. Orders over $300 ship free.
Is a signature required on delivery?
No. Every package is dropped off at the destination address.
Can I schedule a delivery date for my order?
Yes! At coralSLover® you can request a preferred delivery date during checkout or send us a message with the exact date you’d like your order delivered. We’ll do our best to coordinate shipping so your fish or corals arrive on that day. Shipping Days: We typically ship Monday–Thursday to avoid weekend delays. Delivery Requests: Must be made before the order ships. coralSLover® recommended to choose a date when someone will be home to receive the package. This helps keep your corals and fish healthy and makes acclimation smoother.
What should I do if the package wasn’t delivered due to a wrong address?
We always double-check the shipping address when preparing packages. If the wrong address is provided, or the carrier cannot find the destination, the package will be returned to the local office. It is the customer’s responsibility to track the package. If it was not delivered, contact FedEx or UPS to locate it. Usually, you can pick up the package at the local office with your ID and tracking number.
What should I do when tracking shows that the package was delivered, but I didn’t receive it?
Sometimes tracking information is not updated or incorrect. If the package shows as delivered but you did not receive it, contact the carrier immediately to locate it. The package could have been lost, stolen, or returned to the local office, or delivered to the wrong location.
What should I do when the carrier left a door sticker (unable to deliver), but I wasn’t home?
Do not wait until the next day. Contact the carrier right away to find the package. Most of the time FedEx or USPS leaves the package at the door, but if a sticker is left, the package may be at the local carrier office. Bring your ID and tracking number to pick it up.
Do you ship fish nationwide?
Yes! We ship fish to most U.S. states, including Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Shipping fees are calculated per order, and orders over a certain amount may qualify for free shipping.
How are fish shipped?
Each fish is carefully packed with temperature-controlled water and oxygen to ensure safe transit. We take every precaution to reduce stress and maintain the health of your fish during shipping.
Do you ship live fish on weekends?
Yes, weekend shipping is available for an additional fee. Please contact us for details.
Acclimation & Coral Care FAQ
What should I do when corals arrive?
Follow the coral acclimation guide. If a coral is DOA, follow the return policy.
How do I store corals temporarily?
Keep corals in a stable, aerated container with tank water at appropriate temperature and salinity. Minimize exposure to direct sunlight and avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
What’s the recommended light intensity?
Low light: approximately 30–50 PAR
Medium light: approximately 50–150 PAR
High light: over 150 PAR
What’s the recommended light intensity?
Basic Water Parameters for Reef Tanks (Corals)
Temperature: 76–80 °F (24–27 °C)
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024–1.026 (34–35 ppt)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity (dKH): 8–12 dKH (keep stable—swings stress corals)
Calcium (Ca): 400–450 ppm (critical for skeletal growth in LPS/SPS)
Magnesium (Mg): 1250–1350 ppm (stabilizes alkalinity & calcium balance)
Nitrate (NO3): 2–10 ppm (too high = algae, too low = corals starve)
Phosphate (PO4): 0.02–0.08 ppm (just enough for metabolism, but not too much)
How do I care for my new coral?
Place your coral in a stable environment with appropriate lighting, temperature, and water parameters. Avoid sudden changes in flow, light, or water chemistry. Follow the acclimation guide for best results and observe your coral for stress signs in the first few days.What water flow is recommended for corals?
Low flow: gentle movement, ideal for delicate or soft corals
Medium flow: moderate movement, suitable for many LPS corals
High flow: strong movement, preferred for SPS corals and faster-growing species
How do I feed my corals?
Many corals benefit from supplemental feeding with coral foods, phytoplankton, or specialized reef supplements. Feeding frequency depends on the coral type; soft corals typically require less, while LPS and SPS corals may need more frequent feedings.How do I handle coral stress or bleaching?
Monitor water parameters and ensure proper lighting and flow. Reduce sudden environmental changes and consider temporary shading or adjusting light intensity. Healthy corals often recover if stress is identified early.Acclimation Types for Fish and Corals FAQ
What are the different types of acclimation?
Acclimation helps fish and corals adjust to your aquarium water gradually, reducing stress and increasing survival rates. Main types include:
1. Slow Drip Acclimation (Recommended)
Also called: Stress-Free™ Drip Method
Description: Aquarium water is slowly dripped into the container holding your fish or coral to gradually adjust temperature, salinity, and pH.
Time: 1–3 hours depending on species.
Best for: Sensitive or high-value fish, corals shipped in water.
2. Float Bag / Temperature Acclimation
Float the sealed shipping bag in the aquarium for 15–30 minutes to equalize temperature before opening.
Best for hardy species that tolerate minor water chemistry differences.
3. Bucket / Water Mixing Acclimation
Transfer fish to a clean container and slowly add small amounts of tank water every 5–10 minutes over 30–60 minutes.
Suitable for medium-tolerance species.
4. Direct Release (Not Recommended for Sensitive Species)
Fish or corals are placed directly into the tank without acclimation.
Only for very hardy species, as it carries high stress and mortality risk.
5. Coral Container Acclimation
Corals are placed in a separate container with tank water for 30–60 minutes before introducing to the tank.
Gradually adjust light exposure after water parameters stabilize.
Q: How do I know acclimation is complete?
A: When the container water is mostly replaced with tank water (3–4x the original bag water) and fish or corals are swimming or expanding normally, they are ready for release into the aquarium.
Coral Dip Care FAQ
What is coral dipping?
Coral dipping is the process of treating new corals with a safe solution to remove pests, parasites, or unwanted algae before adding them to your tank. This helps prevent infestations in your reef.
Do I need to dip corals from coralSLover®?
Our aquaculture corals are healthy and pest-free, but dipping is recommended as a precaution to protect your existing tank.
Types of coral dips:
Iodine / Lugol’s solution: Mild, effective for algae and bacteria.
Commercial dips: Revive, Coral Rx, Tropic Marin Coral Dip.
Freshwater dip (soft corals only): Short exposure to remove pests (use caution).
How long should I dip corals?
Soft corals: 1–2 minutes
LPS corals: 3–5 minutes
SPS corals: 5–10 minutes
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for commercial dips.
How to dip corals safely?
Prepare a container with dip solution at tank temperature.
Gently place coral in solution.
Monitor coral—remove immediately if excessive stress occurs (tissue retraction, bleaching).
Rinse coral in clean tank water before placing it in your main aquarium.
Can coral dipping harm my coral?
When done correctly and with proper solutions, dipping is safe. Avoid overexposure or high concentrations to prevent stress or tissue damage.
Tip: For both fish and corals, the Slow Drip, Stress-Free™ Method combined with coral dipping (for corals) provides the best start in your tank, minimizing stress and promoting long-term health.
What is the “Slow Drip, Stress-Free™” Method?
The “Slow Drip, Stress-Free™” Method is a gentle way to acclimate fish to your aquarium water. Fish arrive in water from the wholesaler, which often has different temperature, salinity, or pH than your tank. Slow drip acclimation gradually mixes the aquarium water with the bag water, reducing stress and improving survival. This method works for both saltwater and freshwater fish.
How long does acclimation take?
We recommend 1–3 hours for most fish, depending on species and sensitivity. Delicate or high-value fish may benefit from a longer drip period. The goal is to allow water chemistry and temperature to equalize slowly without shocking the fish.
Do I need a separate container for acclimation?
Yes. Place your fish in a clean, aerated container using the water they arrived in. Avoid using the main tank during drip acclimation to prevent stress and allow careful monitoring.
How do I set up a drip line?
Use airline tubing to siphon water from your aquarium to the container holding the fish.
Tie a knot or use a drip valve to control the flow. The flow should be 1–2 drops per second.
Gradually increase flow as the fish adjust over time.
Can I acclimate more than one fish at a time?
Yes, if the container is large enough for all the fish to move freely. Avoid overcrowding, as stress increases with density. For sensitive species, acclimate them separately.
What if my fish shows signs of stress during acclimation?
Signs include rapid gill movement, clamped fins, or erratic swimming. Slow down the drip rate, reduce handling, and ensure the container is in a quiet, shaded area. Some fish may need extra time to adjust.
Do freshwater fish require the same acclimation method as saltwater fish?
Yes! The same Slow Drip, Stress-Free™ technique applies. Slowly mixing the tank water with the transport water prevents shock and ensures a smooth transition for both freshwater and saltwater species.
What water parameters should I monitor during acclimation?
Temperature: Match aquarium water closely. Sudden changes can stress fish.
pH: Gradual adjustments reduce shock.
Salinity (saltwater only): Slowly balance specific gravity to your tank’s level.
How do I know when acclimation is complete?
When the water volume in the acclimation container is at least 3–4 times the original bag water and the fish are swimming normally, it is generally safe to release them into the aquarium. Avoid rushing—better slow than sorry.
Should I feed fish immediately after acclimation?
No. Wait at least 12–24 hours to allow the fish to recover from transport and acclimation. Feeding too early can stress fish further.
Can I use the drip method for corals too?
Yes, corals shipped in water can benefit from slow acclimation to your tank water. Use the same principles: gradual water mixing, minimal handling, and careful observation.
Why is acclimation important?
Fish and corals are sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry. Proper acclimation reduces stress, prevents shock, and increases survival rates—helping your aquarium thrive from day one.
coralSLover® Beginner FAQ – Coral Attachment & Care
How do I attach corals to live rock?
Most corals come as small frags on plugs or rubble. Use reef-safe super glue gel or aquarium epoxy putty to secure them. Press the coral onto the rock and hold briefly — it will stick and naturally attach over time.
Can I attach corals to rocks already in the tank?
Yes! Reef-safe super glue gel and epoxy putty solidify underwater, making it easy to attach frags to submerged rocks.
How long does it take to harden?
Super glue gel: 10–30 seconds, fully cured in a few minutes.
Epoxy putty: 5–10 minutes to harden, fully set in ~1 hour.
Can I skip glue and just place the coral?
Yes, if you wedge frags in crevices. This is chemical-free but less secure, and corals may move until they grow naturally.
Which method is best for beginners?
Easiest: Reef-safe super glue gel — quick and works underwater.
Best for heavier corals: Epoxy putty — strong and stable.
Where can I get reef-safe adhesives?
You can find reef-safe super glue gels and aquarium epoxy putties at various reputable online retailers.
Price glue gel range from $5, Epoxy putty $10.
Do you have Beginner advices?
Introduce 1–2 corals at a time.
Use small amounts of glue or putty.
Always choose reef-safe products.
Be patient — corals will grow and naturally attach over time.
For helpful tips on coral care and beginner guidance, please visit our Starter Guide for Beginners page at our site.
Return and Refund FAQ
What is your Coral Refund Policy?
At coralSLover®, we stand behind the quality and health of our corals. That’s why we offer a 14-Day Guarantee on all corals shipped with 1-Day Shipping.
If your coral arrives Dead on Arrival (DOA) or shows signs of severe stress, follow these steps:
Take clear photos of the coral inside its original sealed shipping container immediately upon delivery.
Take additional photos after acclimating the coral in your tank under normal lighting and water conditions.
Submit the photos within 2–3 hours of delivery along with your order number through our messaging system.
After we review your claim, we will issue either:
Store credit via a discount code for the coral’s value, or
A replacement coral added to your next order (shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility).
Please remember that some corals may take a few days to fully open and adjust to their new environment. Minor differences in appearance are normal after shipping.
Important: Shipping Method Matters
Our 14-Day Guarantee applies only to 1-Day Shipping.
2-Day Shipping is at the customer’s own risk and is not covered by the guarantee.
2-Day Shipping is best suited for hardy coral types such as zoanthids, and certain soft corals, and is a good option for customers who want to save on shipping costs.
Do you provide refunds for fish that arrive dead?
We’re sorry, but we do not offer refunds for fish that arrive dead. Each fish is carefully hand-picked and shipped with care, but live animals can be unpredictable during transit. Following proper acclimation and tank setup guidelines will give your fish the best chance to thrive.
Do I receive a refund if I choose 2-Day Shipping?
No, 2-Day Shipping is not covered by our 14-Day Coral Guarantee. Customers who choose 2-Day Shipping do so at their own risk. While many hardy coral types (such as zoanthids, mushrooms, and some soft corals) typically ship well using this method, we do not offer refunds or replacements for losses that occur during 2-Day transit.
If you want full coverage under our guarantee, we recommend selecting 1-Day Shipping at checkout.
How can I cancel my order?
You can cancel your order before it ships by sending us a message with your order cancellation request. Please note that payment processing fees cannot be refunded, so your refund will be minus these fees. Once your order has been packed or shipped, it can no longer be canceled.
About Our Facility FAQ
Where is coralSLover® located?
Our facility is based in Monroe, NY. Since 2020, we operate primarily as an online store and ship corals and fish nationwide.
Can I visit your facility in person?
Not at this time. Our facility is not open to the public, and walk-ins are not allowed. We plan to offer appointment-based visits in the future.
Do you offer in-person order pickups?
All orders are shipped via UPS, FedEx, or USPS. We do not offer in-person pick-ups.
Do you have phone customer service?
No. All customer service is handled via website messaging to ensure prompt and documented responses.
What are your facility’s operating hours?
Our online store is always open 24/7. Appointment-based visits will be scheduled individually in the future.
Is your facility environmentally friendly?
Yes. We use recirculating indoor aquaculture systems, which minimize water use, reduce waste, and allow us to sustainably propagate corals without impacting natural reefs.
Can I contact your facility directly for questions?
All inquiries should go through our website messaging system. This ensures your question is documented and responded to promptly.
Will you ever open a retail storefront?
Currently, we're not public retail store, but we may offer appointment-based visits in the future for customers or enthusiasts.