Dead or Alive???

Hey 3reef,

I need some help in deciding what to do. I had a 10gallon pod tank that I broke down about 5 weeks ago. I took out the 15lbs of LR, put it in a 5g bucket along with the water from the tank, put the lid on the bucket and forgot about it. I had law finals. I'd like to know whether I should put this rock into my display tank as is, whether I should scrub it real well and freshwater dip it before adding, or whether I should nuke it. The bucket water was 62*f, the specific gravity was 1.025, and it was stored for 5 weeks in a closed bucket without a powerhead or even an air-stone. Whatcha think?

Oh, and I think a sponge type organism is growing on them. Not sure if they are really sponges, but they seem like it. Is this good or bad? I included a picture. Thanks in advance!

 

If the water smells bad wash well in new salt water and expect a cycle. If not maybe start water circulating and add a heater to raise the temp slowly so as not to shock/kill anything off.

 

Great advice! I didn't even think of that. The water doesn't smell bad so I'm gonna add circulation and heat. Thanks for the suggestion!