chemistry

[raidencmc]

I know it is somwhere. But after your tank has cycled what types of tests should you do on a regular basis.

 

[dolfans1]

It depends on what type of tank you want. For FOWLR, you'll want to test pH, S.G., ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. There are several test kits out there that offer all of these in one package. Phosphates may be a useful test also if you have algae problems and/or are using tap water for the water source. If you want to add coral, alkalinity and calcium are very important also. Although generally not considered a "test," it's very important to monitor temperature no matter what type of tank you have.

 

[LittlePuff]

Monitor temp, pH, phosphate and nitrates in a fully cycled FOWLR tank.

Kim

 

[Pineapple]

A Refractometer with ATC is another good investment.

 

[dolfans1]

Good point Pineapple. It's often overlooked that SG is dependant upon temperature. If your hydrometer (or refractometer) isn't calibrated at the temperature you're measuring, the SG reading will be off. Hydrometers are often calibrated at 64 F (I think); when measuring at 80 F you may have to add as much as 0.003 units to the real SG, depending on the model.

 

[mysis]

SG, Ammonia/nitrite/nitrate, phosphate, calcium, Ph, tempreture.

They are the only ones i test for and i have a reef.