Lava rock in a reef tank

Question
I've read up on as much as I can find regarding lava rock in reef and saltwater aquarium systems.  Most people say not to bother with it as some say that it depends on where the lava rock originates, color, etc.  Is there a safe lava rock for a reef aquarium?  If so, can you please tell me which ones and how to make sure it is safe? In addition, is there any prep that needs to be done to lava rock prior to adding?  My aquarium is 2.5 years old.  I love the look of lava rock however I need to make sure that it will be safe before adding corals.  Thank you for your help!

Answer
Hi Nikki,

Great question:

Lava rock has been successfully used in saltwater aquariums, after it was tested. However the rule of thumb is, it's better to stick with lime based rock.

Lava rock can vary in the minerals that make up the rock, and the major concern is "are these minerals going to continue to leach, and drastically off-set the pH in my saltwater aquarium, to unsafe levels?"

The best answer to give is the following: Since Lava rock varies in mineral components, it is best to set up a separate saltwater tank, with the Lava rock that you intend to use, so that you can monitor it, and test the water parameters for unsafe elements, and pH spikes / swings, etc. The separate tank does not have to be anything fancy or costly, it could be a large water-tight plastic bin, with a hang-on filter.

One of the most important tests you should perform, is to see if the Lava rock is giving off copper. You definitely don't want this element being given off in your reef aquarium, because copper is very toxic to corals and invertebrates, and will cause them to die, or never open to their fullest.

I wish you luck with all your saltwater aquarium endeavors.

Sincerely,
David
http://www.ocreef.com