Any problems with using Phos-gaurd or De-NitrAte ???

[rdmpe]

I think I may order some phos-gaurd and De-Nitrate to put in my E400 media containers. This may help me get the algae better under control. I am also reducing the stocking levels and doing water changes to get the nitrates down. They've been hanging in the 100+ range. I don't have a phosphate test kit yet, but the lfs says there is phosphates in the tap water. I'll be buying a test kit soon. Would the phos-gaurd and De-Nitrate pull other things out of the water such as Iron or Potassium?

I would only use them until the phosphate and nitrate levels test at more acceptable levels. AFAIK that is about zero for phosphates and 10 to 20 ppm for nitrates.

Thanks!

[ChilDawg]

Originally posted by rdmpe
I would only use them until the phosphate and nitrate levels test at more acceptable levels. AFAIK that is about zero for phosphates and 10 to 20 ppm for nitrates.

If you only use them until that purpose is fulfilled, you may have a recurring problem with the levels rising and falling as you use and don't use the product...I see, though, that you are trying to rid yourself of the root causes, which is encouraging, but I think that more planting might be your best bet (if such is possible...don't recall having seen your tanks or mention thereof, so I might be wrong in telling you to plant more in a completely planted tank or something like that).

[rdmpe]

The tank is a newly planted tank. It is going pretty well so far, but there is room for more plants (ie I can still see a little bit of the substrate :) )... I would have a hard time coming up with a list of plants, but I would say "medium" density of plants at this point. I also have DIY co2, 4.3 watts/gallon of PC lights at 12 hours/day. 30g tank.

My main concern is that phos-gaurd or de-nitrate will effect something that I don't know about.

[djlen]

You want to avoid using those products. Chemicals usually only serve to make a bad situation worse.
IMO, water changes and the addition of nutrient eating plants will help a lot. Especially floaters such as Salvinia, Water Sprite, Pennywort, Riccia etc. Get some Wisteria and some cheap nutrient hogs like egeria. But the floaters are a must as they will not only suck up the nutrients, but they will shade the tank to some degree.
You've got over 4 watts/gal. in a newly planted tank with too few plants. This is a universal problem and can be corrected without the chemicals.
You don't mention how many bottles of DIY CO2 you're using, but if it's only one, throw another on there. You want your CO2 to be in the high 20's ppm.
Len

[rdmpe]

Thanks for the response. I have 2 - 2 Liter bottles on it. They are going at about 2 bubbles/second right now. I checked yesterday and had 24 ppm co2.

I'm looking into a bottled co2 system based on the paint ball gun co2 equipment. Still have some research to do on that though...

I will hold off on the chemicals and just keep adding plants !!! I have a bunch of anachris that is growing like crazy. I haven't been letting it float though, since I wanted the other plants to get plenty of light too. The anachris has actually put out anchors and is now attached to some of the lava rocks all by itself.

I will look for some of the plants you mentioned.

[djlen]

Floaters are great. They don't take up any room on the bottom and they will shade your tank. Salvinia is cheap and will cover your surface in 2 weeks or SOONER. And suck up all the excess nutrients. Hope you find it.
Len

[mrk442]

You want to stay away from the paintball co2 both the canisters and the cartriges contain other things than co2 that can harm your tank dont remeber what but i know they include some oil


Just my 0.02
Matt