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Unread 01/20/2014, 06:26 PM   #1
mattix
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Which test kits and nutrients?

The tank finished cycling a few weeks ago and I'm already fed up with the hydrometer. So I'm tossing it and getting a refractometer. While I'm at it I might as well prepare for getting corals.... Which test kits would I need if I am adding say liquid calcium, Strontium and Molybdenum, and Iodine?

I have the regular sw api test kit (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, ph) and using ro/di water

my goal is a mixed reef


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Unread 01/20/2014, 06:29 PM   #2
auburnreefer110
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Calcium,Alkalinity, Magnesium, and a Nitrate and Phosphate test kit is good to have a well. Don't start adding any supplements yet.


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Unread 01/20/2014, 06:44 PM   #3
snorvich
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I use Calcium,Alkalinity, Magnesium once per week on my tanksl.


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Unread 01/20/2014, 06:49 PM   #4
disc1
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Calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium are the holy trinity of coral.

Nitrate and phosphate are good to have around to watch water quality and make sure you don't start an algae farm.

The trace elements you listed aren't really an issue if you're doing any sort of water changes. And dosing and measuring those is a real PITA to get right. They're best left alone unless you find you have a problem that seems to be related to one or a particular animal (certain gorgonians and iodine) that has particular needs.


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Unread 01/20/2014, 08:24 PM   #5
mattix
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which nutrients would you recommend? I was just looking on amazon and found the kents reef starter kit, probably won't buy it then. I'm doing regular water changes with instant ocean salt mix. Could I just switch over to reef crystals instead of dosing?


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Unread 01/20/2014, 08:29 PM   #6
Sugar Magnolia
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Reef Crystals is a good swap for IO. It has more magnesium than the IO salt. The general rule is that you don't dose anything you can't test for. Generally the frequent water change will replenish the trace elements.


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