How Long Does it Take a Coral Frag to Grow?

Watching a coral grow, when you stare at it every day, may feel like watching paint dry. Not all corals grow at the same rate, even within a species or colony. There are a multitude of factors that can affect how quickly a coral in any setting may grow, and the same is true with newly cut coral frags.

First, it depends on the type of coral that you have fragged. Different types of coral have varying growth rates, even when kept in the same conditions. Once a coral is cut, it will need time to reestablish osmoregulation within its body (especially in soft leather corals). A smaller cut will help speed this process along. The size of the frag will also affect how quickly you start to see colony growth.

When maintaining a reef tank, pristine water quality is a must. Maintaining coral frags is no exception; it may even be more important. If your new coral colony is exposed to proper nutrient levels, it is able to uptake elements such as calcium to create new growth. Be sure to note the posture of the existing polyps within your frag and react accordingly. Polyp extension and tissue coloration are two determiners that can let you know if your coral is responding to your tank conditions.

Overall, with the correct water quality, light, and flow conditions, you should see some growth over the next several weeks following a fragging event. It takes time, but eventually you will begin to see how the new colony is growing and responding to its placement.