Lava rock for live rock?

[herpsandreefs]

Has anyone used lava rock instead of live rock. I know it wouldn't look good covered with coraline, but I think it would hold up a lot longer than live rock. Its probably even more porous as well, and super cheap! Any pics of lava rock reef setups???

 

[fsa]

Before you decide, be sure and read up on it. I think the main concern on lava rock is the relatively high metal content in it and it possibly leaching into the water system. I don't know why it wouldn't look good covered in coraline algae, though?

If you want something that is really porous, check out/into "tufa" rock. My lfs sells what he calls tufa rock. It is very light and porous and soft. You can crush it with a hard grip.

good luck, Frank