What do I test for?

[leesst200]

Hi all,

What are the main tests that I shold be carrying out on my tank?
I have my water tested every 2 weeks at my lfs but im buying a test kit every time I go so I can monitor the tank myself and get a better understanding of how things work.

Currently I have:
Nitrate NO3
Nitrite NO2
Ammonia NH3/NH4
Iron FE (will I need this?)
Phosphate PO4

Do I need the Iron test and which others do I need?

 

[scottdwh]

I havent heard of testing for iron. If you only have a FOWLR then what you have listed is what you need to test for along with salinity, pH, and temp. If you have corals, then calcium, magnesium, and alkalinity are good to test for.

 

[leesst200]

If you have corals, then calcium, magnesium, and alkalinity are good to test for.

I have a hydrometer and thermometer also.
I have fowlr at the moment but want to add corals at a later date.
To add to my list then,

calcium,
magnesium,
PH.

Anyone got any advice on the Iron test that I have picked up?

 

[jagr200]

Return it. I have never heard of testing water for Iron but I have heard of testing for Copper. If you want a good SW kit get this one.

 

[vorlx]

I test for:

Ammonia
Nitrite
Nitrate
PH
Phosphate

I also want to get a silicate test to test my water source but that would be a one time thing for the most part. You could also add calcium to the list if you have a reef tank.

 

[Grins]

I've heard of testing for iron, but most don't need to. I'd agree that in addition to what you have you'll want to pick up tests for Ca, Alk, and Mg if you wish to keep stony corals. Your snail shells and calcium reliant macros such as halmedia will also benefit from those 3 tests showing your parameters are inline.