Live rock types - is there a better rock?

[ndimuzio]

I have noticed there are many different types of Live Rocks for sale.. what are the differences?

FIJI ULTRA PREMIUM LIVE ROCK
LIVE FIJI BASE ROCK
SOUTH PACIFIC MANONO ISLAND
BARRIER REEF NAMOLI LIVE ROCK!
MARSHALL ISLAND ULTRA SHAPE
TONGA LIVE ROCK
TONGA DEEP WATER

I have a 73 Gallon reef.. right now I have about 80lbs of rock, I am planning on getting 2 VERY large peices to complete my 140-150lbs of rock.. but there are so many choices...
Please let me know,.. thanks for your help!

 

[taikonaut]

They are different because they are from different area. The price is a reflection of the various level of difficult in shipping the rock from the source to your LFS, and its markup in price.

What is "better" for you depends on your purpose. If all you care about is the bacteria action, then they are all the same. But if you care about the shape/locale, then it maybe better to get one that suit your taste.

 

[Anonymous]

If you are planning on really big pieces you really should try to get somewhere you can pick them out in person. Good rock has complex neat textures with lotsa holes, and abundance of life, and is in a shape that you like. The locations don't matter much to me, although anything labeled base rock usually isn't too great.

 

[ndimuzio]

Thanks!