Calcium Question

[TimT]

Water changes are always a good idea. After the water change make sure the Magnesium is 3 times the Calcium. If the Mag is less than 3x Calcium you run the risk of Calcium build ups on the pump magnets, heaters and even the tank glass.

[tim the toolman]

That's actually a test kit I do not have. Good call on that I should probably grab one.

[waynemah]

I generally give a couple of days to determine if a coral is actually stressed. I have a plate that looks like it's ready to die a few times per month, then bounces back within the next couple of days.

Like Subman said, your calcium and alk are balanced. If your dosing, step it back a notch or two and find the right quantity for your tank.

Nitrate and Phosphate at 0 looks good on paper, but from my understanding when using Biopellets or Zeovit you should have a traceable amount. I've used every kit on the market and found Elos to be the most accurate for a low nutrient tank.

[tim the toolman]

Yeah I agree that the API kits are nowhere near the best going. I just have a very ritualistic approach to my maintenance/feelings and have never had any issues with any of the main 4 (trates, trites, ammo, Phos) so I've never put much effort into precise monitoring. And since I saw your tank Wayne I have stepped up my water changes a little.

[waynemah]

Originally Posted by tim the toolman

Yeah I agree that the API kits are nowhere near the best going. I just have a very ritualistic approach to my maintenance/feelings and have never had any issues with any of the main 4 (trates, trites, ammo, Phos) so I've never put much effort into precise monitoring. And since I saw your tank Wayne I have stepped up my water changes a little.

Good to hear! (and thanks! ) I believe your on the right track. I'd bet that it'll be fine... TimT has a good point about mag, I found the red sea kit the easiest for testing mag.

[tim the toolman]

I just remembered that the equipment I'm selling for my buddy Allan ha a red sea pro mag test kit in it. SOLD lol