Fragging — the process of cutting a coral into smaller pieces — is how reef keepers propagate their collection, trade with other hobbyists, and sustain the hobby sustainably. Done correctly, it is stress-free for the coral and yields healthy new colonies.
Equipment You'll Need
- Bone cutters or a coral bandsaw (for LPS and SPS)
- Razor blade or scalpel (for soft corals)
- Frag plugs or tiles
- Coral glue (super glue gel works well)
- Iodine-based dip (Coral RX, CoralDip)
- Separate frag tank or container
LPS Fragging
For LPS like hammers, torches, and frogspawn, identify individual heads and cut cleanly between them with bone cutters. Each head attached to a skeleton base will form a new colony. Dip in coral dip for 5–10 minutes and mount on a frag plug with super glue.
SPS Fragging
Use bone cutters or a bandsaw to cut branches at least 1–2 inches long. Mount immediately on frag plugs. Keep under lower light for 1–2 weeks as the cut end heals over.
Soft Coral Fragging
Many soft corals like leathers and zoanthids can be cut with a razor blade. Zoanthid polyps can be individually removed from the base. Mushrooms can be sliced into quarters, each of which will regenerate into a full mushroom.
Post-Frag Care
Keep new frags in lower flow and lower light for the first 1–2 weeks. Watch for infection or recession at cut sites. A separate frag tank lets you monitor without disturbing your main display.