How long can I transport corals out of water?

[Lineatus]

Ok, this is a bit of a rough idea, but hey, why not ask.

I have a very large gruges gorgonian that I am wanting to rehome, however I don’t have a container large enough to put it in, without breaking up the colony.

My LFS is a 10 minute drive away, could I just wrap the coral in damp paper towels?

 

[billyocean]

Could you buy or borrow some type of storage container for the transport?

 

[Tamberav]

It would probably be fine but what about putting it in a tote sideways?

 

[danreef55]

Your LFS likely has large plastic bags. I would sink the bag and fill it to 3/4 capacity. Place your specimen in the bag while it is underwater. Lay it flat and take a drive

 

[NeedAReef]

I would bet they will save you some of the shipping containers their stock arrives in if you ask. They are usually Styrofoam coolers more or less. that would be much more idea.

 

[braaap]

Those used to be shipped wrapped in wet newspaper and stacked on top of each other. That way they didn’t break and the shipping was 1/4 the price. They probably still do it for large pieces.

That said I’d wrap in soaked paper towel and go.

 

[danreef55]

I must be missing something. Please clarify. Why wouldn't the proper method to transport in water?

 

[Lineatus]

Despite the consensus, I risked the paper towel method . Turned up to work this morning to see the gorgs open and happy.