View Full Version : Additives
lotuskid
03-27-2007, 3:58 AM
Just want to get a few views on reef additives, things like Iodine and Trace Elements.
Do water changes replace all the elements reefs need to grow or are there some elements that do need to be topped up? I don't want to cause problems by adding things not needed but then again am i not adding something that would be benificial?
i_limantara
03-27-2007, 4:04 AM
well... need to check the water you use to change.
you use sea water or what?
my water is made by my own... so... i need those trace or nutricy...
i didn't use sea water until now...
please be careful. like iodid will make your coral sick if you put it too much
Reefscape
03-27-2007, 4:32 AM
All the basics like Strontium, iodine etc etc will get replaced when you carry out water changes...My opinion is that these should not really be added, unless absolute neccesary and if you do use them, make sure that you test for them aswell....
Niko
I rely on water changes to replace the bulk of the trace elements needed for our reef. And, it's been working for a year now, so something's going right. The key is to use a good quality salt mix.
The only additives that go into our tank on a regular basis are calcium and alkalinity buffer as test results indicate they are needed along with Selcon that's used to soak food in before being fed to the tank.
Germanman
03-27-2007, 11:55 AM
All the basics like Strontium, iodine etc etc will get replaced when you carry out water changes...My opinion is that these should not really be added, unless absolute neccesary and if you do use them, make sure that you test for them aswell....
Niko
I rely on water changes to replace the bulk of the trace elements needed for our reef. And, it's been working for a year now, so something's going right. The key is to use a good quality salt mix.
The only additives that go into our tank on a regular basis are calcium and alkalinity buffer as test results indicate they are needed along with Selcon that's used to soak food in before being fed to the tank.
yup but if u have a full reef like mine(my corals suck up the elements before my weekly water change) or want crazy color and growth u can use some supplements iodine and essential elements are good starters...but not needed if ur using reef crystals, just extra...kinda like candy. just remember test for what u use. if u want a non supplement alternative try Combo Vital...nice extra food/vitamins for corals! i would never feed my fish and corals without garlic and selcon either.