vodka,sugar,vinegar ???

[fencer]

I read that entire thread on RC. That is very interesting. I also read Reefer Rob's thread pointer and it actually did not discount the vodka method. After reading the thread. IMO I would not use sugar to dose tanks. For one reason in that it is too complex to use rapidly in to the organism. 2 carbon molecules like ethanol or acetate go directly to the metabolic chain. Most bacteria that reduce nitrates utilize this cycle(TCA I think) predominantly and would readliy take vodka in. I am hesitant to use vodka as I think it should be put to proper use. I would like to use Zeovit but $$$ keep me from considering it. It does work but I think zeo is more gradual than vodka. As noted on the RC thread...large blooms with white stuff are in the water,,,,tells me whatever bacteria are using it are multiplying. I prefer not to use large doses but gradual increments to stem the bloom.

[Oceanic]

I mix vinegar with my Kalk in my reactor and I could not be happier with the results. Vinegar has numerous benefits when used properly.

Cheers!

[fencer]

Did you see immediate improvements with vinegar. I can see using acetic acid with a Kalk reactor but not using vinegar alone.

[Reefer Rob]

I used vinegar with Kalkwasser when I used to add it. (gave that up when I switched to SPS) It was mainly to increase the potency of the Kalk. I didn't notice any nutrient reduction benefits from it.

[Oceanic]

Originally Posted by fencer

Did you see immediate improvements with vinegar. I can see using acetic acid with a Kalk reactor but not using vinegar alone.

I did see a reduction in nitrates when dosing it with Kalk; however, vinegar alone is still a potent carbon source. I would dose vinegar alone if I didn't mix it with kalk. If you plan on trying this just mix a little kalk into the vinegar anyways, the two together counter act the hard ph either way.

[fencer]

I was thinking of using ethanol. I would not use vinegar as it might interfere with Calcium reactor controller. My only problem with ethanol I have is it might be denatured.

[Oceanic]

Not sure that would be a good idea, I would do lots of research first.