New tank, questions about dead coral and rock??

[Sregnar35]

I'm starting a new SW tank, and I found about 20 pieces of dead marine rock, coral and some shells in my newly purchased houses yard. They probably have been outside for many years as they had grass growing out of them. I took them all out of the ground, what do I need to do to prep all of these pieces for my new tank, thanks.

[mogurnda]

I'd be a little worried about what they have been exposed to over the years. You can get the grunge off by scrubbing and then soaking in bleach, followed by throrough rinsing, dechlorinating and drying, but you could be in trouble if they have been exposed to fertilizers, herbicides or insecticides.