Live Rock Aquarium. Live Rock was first marketed in the 1970's. With the advent of improved filtration systems, and recognition of the vital role live rock plays in a reef system, a demand has grown for a steady supply of live rock. The live rock provides a natural filtration and biodiversity that can be attained by no other artificial means. In the state of Florida in particular, rapid growth and development of a commercially important new fishery has evolved via the harvesting and supply of live rock for the marine aquaria market.
Live Rock provides a habitat for invertebrates and larger plants.
As the demand for live rock increased, harvesting increased in Florida waters, and subsequently opposition to harvesting increased from political, special interest and environmentalist groups. Because of the many concerns raised by these groups, the Fishery Management councils were charged with developing a plan for the National Marine Fisheries Services for management , or closure of the live rock fishery. The state of Florida has also implemented a program for leasing plots in state waters of the gulf, and South Atlantic areas for live rock aquaculture sites. Open ocean aquaculture of live rock has been implemented by several individuals in both federal and state waters offshore from Florida with very favorable results. Observations of aquaculture sites to date demonstrates growth of desirable organisms within months, however the optimal time for growth of hardy, viable organisms which are sustainable in an aquarium appears to range between 24 to 32 months, notwithstanding any disturbances from natural forces or predation.