Calcium, Alkalinity, PH

[Iminpa2380]

Just curious where everyone trys to keep there Calcium, Alkalinity, PH.

Mine is:
Calcium 400
Alkalinity 10.6
PH 8.2

I have been dripping Kalk 1 drip every 4 to 5 seconds. Tested yesterday the only thing that changed a little was the Alkalinity it was 10.2 yesterday. Im going to test again tommorow trying to see if thats dripping to fast or not fast enough.


Another question what is the importance of Magnesium. Should i be checking it? And where should it be? Everything is healthy and looking good



Thanks,
Eric

[Phurst]

Those numbers look pretty good. I shoot for 400-450 cal, 9-11 alk and 8.2 - 8.4 pH.

Magnesium is definitely very important. if the levels are low, you won't be able to elevate your cal and alk numbers (not that yours need elevating). You should definitely test it from time to time. You want to keep it at at least 3x your target calcium level, so 1200 - 1400.

[Iminpa2380]

oh ok thanks im going to check it see where its at got a test kit it kind of old someone gave me see what it says. Its a salifert test kit i really like these test kits very accurate

[Iminpa2380]

Magnesium 990 any tips on raising or products to use it or should i leave it alone?

[Phurst]

There are plenty of additives available from the LFS, or you can whip up your own with Epsom salts. I'd opt for a more balanced commercially available additive though, since long term Epsom salt use can raise sulfide levels.

[CarmieJo]

Check out Ocean's Blend Magnesium http://theculturedreef.com/additives.htm. Dick is really helpful, sponsor's TR and is a valuable member of our forum. Here is a good article http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-06/rhf/index.php

[Rostr02]

Going have to agree with carmie. Love the oceans blend products I got the 2 part calcium additives as well. Dick is a great guy.