Differences Between Wild Specimens and Aquacultured Specimens | How to Choose Corals
Explains the differences between wild and aquacultured specimens, their respective characteristics, and key points to consider when selecting corals.
Key Takeaways
Explains the differences between wild and aquacultured specimens, their respective characteristics, and key points to consider when selecting corals.
Two Origins: "Wild" and "Aquacultured"
When acquiring corals, specimens generally fall into two categories based on their origin: "wild" (collected from natural reefs) and "aquacultured" (bred and propagated under human management). Even if two corals are the same species and appearance, differences in origin can affect their environmental impact and ease of care, making this an important consideration when selecting specimens.
Neither category is inherently superior—each has distinct characteristics. Being mindful of origin is valuable not only from the perspective of coral reef conservation, but also from a practical standpoint of choosing individuals suited to your own tank environment.
Wild Specimens
Wild specimens refer to corals collected from natural coral reefs. Most species collected and traded internationally are regulated under the Washington Convention (CITES), and legally sourced specimens are distributed after proper export and import procedures. Wild specimens may exhibit color patterns and sizes characteristic of their natural environment, but they must adapt to significant environmental changes—differences in light intensity, water flow, and water quality—between collection and tank introduction. Accordingly, careful acclimation during the initial period is considered especially important.
Natural coral reefs globally face climate change and environmental stress, and concern is growing about the ecological impact of collecting wild specimens. Against this backdrop, in recent years both aquarists and sellers have increasingly prioritized aquacultured specimens as a viable option.
Aquacultured (Frag) Specimens
Aquacultured specimens are produced by fragmenting (fragging) parent corals raised in tank environments. A "frag" is a piece of coral cut from the parent, fixed to a base, and raised as an independent individual. Since these specimens have already adapted to artificial environments and artificial lighting, the environmental change after introduction is relatively minimal, making them generally easier for beginners to manage. Additionally, because they don't rely on wild collection, they are receiving increased attention from the perspective of reducing stress on natural reefs. Methods for creating and mounting frags are detailed in SPS Coral Frag Creation and Mounting Techniques.
Many soft coral species can be easily propagated by fragmentation, and individuals are commonly exchanged among aquarists using the methods featured in How to Propagate Soft Corals. These specimens are typically transferred already adapted to a home tank environment, making initial setup relatively straightforward.
Points to Verify When Selecting
When confirming origin, consider the following:
- Does the seller or seller clearly indicate the specimen's origin (wild or aquacultured)?
- For wild-origin specimens, is there explanation of whether proper export and import procedures were followed?
- For aquacultured or frag-origin specimens, is there information about how long and in what environment the specimen was raised?
Species pages in the encyclopedia (examples: Acropora, Euphyllia) allow you to confirm characteristics specific to each species. If origin is unclear, we recommend contacting the seller or vendor directly rather than guessing.
Care Common to Both Origins Regardless of Source
Whether acquiring wild or aquacultured specimens, careful acclimation is essential during introduction.
- Perform drip acclimation over an extended period (see Coral Acclimation and Drip Methods)
- Perform dipping and quarantine to prevent introduction of parasites and pests (see Selecting Corals and Treatment at Introduction)
- After introduction, use moderate lighting and water flow for several weeks to allow the specimen to adjust to its new environment
Differences in origin represent just one axis of selection. Ultimately, careful management after introduction is what determines success or failure in long-term husbandry, regardless of specimen origin. For general precautions when considering mail-order purchases, see Important Considerations When Buying Corals Online.
Summary
Wild and aquacultured specimens each have different origins and characteristics. Neither is universally the right choice. Rather, by considering environmental stewardship, ease of post-introduction adaptation, and individual specimen characteristics, select individuals that match your tank environment and approach to husbandry. By confirming origin and following basic practices of careful acclimation and quarantine when introducing new specimens, you establish the foundation for long-term success with either type of coral.
