At what poing do you start adding calcium? (1 Viewer)

[GAW]

I ordered 2 part and a test kit and just tested calcium @ 500. 450 is the optimum level so I know I dont need now but I am adding a Crocea clam tonight and I have a few sps frags.

When I do my regular tests where does my level need to be at?

Thanks

 

[CBBSteve]

Hi, GAW.
You have some flexibility, I think most folks aim for 400 to 450.

Good luck,
Steve

 

[GAW]

Thanks Steve

 

[Guest]

Don't forget your alkalinity too.

 

[bag151]

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-05/rhf/index.php

TheH is right, Alkalinity is extremely important, don't over look it.

 

[GAW]

Ok I tested my Alk and it took 16 drops to change color, now by Elos instructions that means its at 8.

That seems way to high to me!

 

[CBBSteve]

a couple of articles

Hi, GAW.
Here's an informative article with some good links for you to consider
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/nov2002/chem.htm

and another to help manage your calcium and alkalinity balance
http://home.comcast.net/~jdieck1/chem_calc3.html

Good luck,
Steve

 

[AquaNerd]

an alk at 8 dkh is not at all too high. you can run alk from 7-14 dkh with no problems and it has been shown that an alk at 11 or so will help some sps actually calcify faster.

 

[Guest]

Just keep things like they are for a couple of days. Check the calc and alk again to see if you need to add yet. You will get a feel for how much alk/calc your tank is eating. Also, what salt are you using. Some salts run cal at or even above 500 from the get go.

 

[GAW]

Thanks for everyones help, much appreciated

Just keep things like they are for a couple of days. Check the calc and alk again to see if you need to add yet. You will get a feel for how much alk/calc your tank is eating. Also, what salt are you using. Some salts run cal at or even above 500 from the get go.

I am using Tropic Marin Pro. I am doing a 15% water change today. I just did a test of new water I getting ready to add and it tested at 400 cal 9 alk.

Can the high alk keep my corals from growing? I have super slow growth, and I have been using this salt from the get go(almost 8 months).

Thanks