I am interested in making a model of a local landmark, an arch at the local university. And getting motipora to encrust on it and have a tank decoration, with our local "landmark".
I have an easy time growing the montipora that I am thinking of using, it even grows on the glass of my tank, in less than 8 months since I moved the tank (see photo1). If I can make the forms easily, I may try getting one or two to be covered with green star polyps instead of the montipora.
I would like a 3d model of the arch 4" or so tall (see photo2).
What would be the best material to use to make the arch to be non-toxic, and allow for the easiest/fastest coral growth?
I can think of using
1. 3D Printed plastic (food grade/nontoxic)
2. Blown Glass
3. Ceramic/Pottery (glazed or unglazed)
4. Cement or plaster from a mold.
Has anyone tried something similar to this? I have seen pics of skulls that people have got corals to encrust but not much in terms of pitfalls how to do it. I expect it to take several months to get good growth to cover it.
What would be the best material to use? I expect to get help from a local artist to actually make the coral form. I expect some sort of pottery may be the best bet, as plaster or cement may be too fragile given the shape, and glass or 3d printing may get expensive.
Are there any types of clays to use or avoid to keep things non-toxic? I know practically nothing about pottery.
If I can get it to work, I think I could sell or trade them to many locals in my University town.
I have an easy time growing the montipora that I am thinking of using, it even grows on the glass of my tank, in less than 8 months since I moved the tank (see photo1). If I can make the forms easily, I may try getting one or two to be covered with green star polyps instead of the montipora.
I would like a 3d model of the arch 4" or so tall (see photo2).
What would be the best material to use to make the arch to be non-toxic, and allow for the easiest/fastest coral growth?
I can think of using
1. 3D Printed plastic (food grade/nontoxic)
2. Blown Glass
3. Ceramic/Pottery (glazed or unglazed)
4. Cement or plaster from a mold.
Has anyone tried something similar to this? I have seen pics of skulls that people have got corals to encrust but not much in terms of pitfalls how to do it. I expect it to take several months to get good growth to cover it.
What would be the best material to use? I expect to get help from a local artist to actually make the coral form. I expect some sort of pottery may be the best bet, as plaster or cement may be too fragile given the shape, and glass or 3d printing may get expensive.
Are there any types of clays to use or avoid to keep things non-toxic? I know practically nothing about pottery.
If I can get it to work, I think I could sell or trade them to many locals in my University town.
