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#21
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![]() stole this from RC:
Quote:
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#22
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![]() I think once a well set up tank is established our test kits for N and P will read zero anyway, so it is almost a waste of time to even use them. I never test for nitrate (after about 6 months) and test phosphate maybe every 2 or 3 months just to be sure.
Chasing magical numbers will only get you into trouble. Watch your corals and respond to their needs. If they start become too light add amino acid to increase available nitrate. If everything looks good, leave it alone. My 2c, your results may vary ![]() |
#23
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![]() I think that sums it up well. I test NO3/PO4 maybe once a year. Test Ca 2 or 3 times. Check alk when my yellow monti turns grey. LEave it alone, watch the corals and change your water. Easy peasy.
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Brad |
#24
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![]() I have pounds and pounds of KNO3 from my planted tank days I could give you some if you make the drive out to maple ridge
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250G DD LED SPS R.I.P. 180G LED SPS 80"x36". 300G custom build Owner of Mountain Ridge Heating and Gas Class A gas fitter, HVAC |
#25
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![]() Forget magical numbers. Especially with our hobby grade test kits.
The UNLS theory is that bacteria need some nitrogen to lower phosphate to zero. So nitrate is a limiting factor to lowering phosphate to zero in bacteria systems. This is why many biopellet users also employ GFO to get PO4 to ZERO. Simply put once nitrate levels reach 0 your PO4 will not come any lower if you are trying to reach UNLS by growing bacteria that is skimmed out. Add amino acids (Zeovit or something similar) to feed corals and raise nitrates but it is also an added expense and time. But as others have said judge by your corals response not magically numbers. |
#26
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#27
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![]() That's when I stop reading. Feed fish, change water, clean skimmer. Done.
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#28
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![]() Guess I'll try the amino acids then, and go back to my normal fish food routine
Thanks all |
#29
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![]() Quote:
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#30
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![]() I'm trying to get some life back in my SPS as some are too pale and growing slowly
I've cut my lighting down a bit and it's helping, but I'd like to improve them some more |