live rock v.s. reef?

[NEWTOSALT]

what is the difference between live rock and reef? i was wondering b/c u guys say a reef tank and live rock are two different things im feelin guilty asking all these questions and not being able to answer anything but i really appreciate this THANKS

 

[PatM]

Live rock is just that, rock with a variety of living creatures living in, on, around and of course off of it. The true definition of reef is a submerged ridge of rock or coral near the surface of the water. however when you wrote reef I believe you are talking about when people say "reef tank" meaning a tank with corals and invertebrates. In the saltwater end of the hobby people usually keep: FO - Fish only, FOWLR - Fish only with live rock, or Reef - which is usually live rock, reef safe fish and invertebrates, and corals. You will find live rock in any reef environment, naturally, and in most captive situations as well.