A Beautiful Coral Reef Display!! Very Pleasant to Look At

[Angie]

Dear David Playfair:

CONGRATULATIONS!!! I like your set up very much. I am new to the aquatic world. Although there are similarities between raring exotic plants, tropical fish and coral reefs, I see the importance of balance in using natural bacteria which is needed for both fish and plants. My question to you is I know salt is a natural germ killing substance but how much salt or sand was required for you to install in your aquarium? Forgive me if you have repeated this step in your column, I have to print out your article because if I don't my eyes will roll right out of my head (reading off a computer drains my eyes). [SMILE] I look forward to hearing from you. :eek1:

 

[Playfair]

Hello, Angie! Thankyou for the kind words!!
I don't think saltwater has anything to do with killing "germs", but the proper mineral balance is crucial in order to provide an environment that promotes the health and growth of corals. It's ironical the difference between salt in the solid state vs. in solution... The smallest chunk of undisolved salt settling on a coral will cause similar burning and damage as it does if a person rubs salt in a wound! For further explainations, you would have to talk to our resident chemist, as that's all I know about it!

As for quantity, it ends up to get 35ppt of salinity you need to add about 2/3 cup of aquarium salt per gallon of water. I don't have enough sand to provide bacterial help, so I rely on the liverock for that function.

The bacteria that comes in with the fish and liverock is what processes the wastes in the aquarium, and its population is regulated based on the bioload. A few of our experts have preached that a more dynamic system of nutritional imports and exports is more benefitial than just minimizing feeding... It get's complicated!

I hope this answered the bulk of your questions!

~Dave

 

[Angie]

Thanx, Dave!!

Thanx, Dave!!

Thanks for the data. Once I get a saltwater set up, I will try to replicate all your hard work and see if I can get all going (and going well). I will be inquiring, believe in me. **Angie**