Are my parameters ok?

[Monte26]

So I've been doing the saltwater thing for a while now, but have had mostly fish only tanks. Now that I am getting into corals, I wanted to make sure things look good before stocking it any further. So here are my parameters:

Ammonia: 0ppm
Nitrite: 0ppm
Nitrate: 0ppm
PH: 8.3
Calcium: 400ppm
dkH: 8
Phosphates: undetectable

Honestly, I already know a ton about ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate, so my question is more focused on calcium and dkH.

Thanks!

 

[jrr98002]

You're at the low end...I'd get your dkH closer to 9 and Ca at least 420ppm would be the lowest I'd have my tanks. You aren't far off though.

 

[CStrickland]

This article is a good rundown of params, I keep a copy of the chart for reference http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-05/rhf/
You'll want to know your magnesium level.
Phos depends on the test: API undetectable means less than .25 ppm which is way too high, Idk the low end on a Hanna ulr but it would be way too low.

 

[Member No. 1]

As CS stated, magnesium MG is also very important to monitor. It is considered part of the "Big 3" Calcium Ca, Alkalinity Alk or dKh and Mg. While it typically doesn't deplete as fast as Ca and Alk, it will go down over time. Mg in the 1275-1400 range will help to stabilize the other 2. When it gets to low it becomes easier for Ca can percipitate out of solution. Also when Mg is in the correct range, it's easier for corals to untilize calcium in its calcification process. One other nice side effect of running on the higher side, is you don't get the heavy build up of calcium on heaters and pumps.

 

[Monte26]

Awesome info guys, thanks!

 

[shyerdj]

what coral do you have in the tank?

 

[Monte26]

Right now, just an open brain and a few zoa colonies. I just graduated from college and have a "real job" now, so I'll be adding things in the coming months.

 

[powderblue1]

450 ca and 175ppm alk, but you are going to have trouble maintaining those levels in such a small tank.:wave:

 

[Ron Reefman]

450 ca and 175ppm alk, but you are going to have trouble maintaining those levels in such a small tank.:wave:

Why do you think it would be harder to keep those parameters in a small tank than in a bigger tank? If you dose regularly you just dose less. My dosing pump runs 24/7 spreading a 200ml dose evenly over 24 hours every day.

 

[powderblue1]

less water = less stability. and not just through evaporation although it is the main problem for most newbies that believe it is easier to maintain nano reef parameters than 100+ gallon reef parameters. Thanks for your dosing suggestions for nanos Ron