Bacteria boom or Calcium precipitation??

[Michaelgregg1]

Hi, I set up my tank about 2 weeks ago, I did a water change the other day and as soon as I put the new water in it went milky?? I dosed the water with Seachem prime and a p.h 8.2 buffer. Is the tank having a bacteria boom or is this Calcium preciptation? The water has cleared slightly but is still a bit milky. All other levels are fine with ammonia, nitrite and nitrate at 0ppm.

 

[C_Everett95]

I don't know how much experience you have in reefing or aquariums but I had a very big problem with super high alkalinity from senselessly dosing a ph buffer. I immediately stopped when numerous people and articles read told me that for the most part they shouldn't be used at all, and if they are, only by experienced people. Again idk how much experience you have, I just want to help you avoid a bigger problem before it happens. just my two cents

 

[homer1475]

Adding PH buffer is like adding Sodium bicarb(Alkalinity) to the tank, it raises alkalinity(which in turn raises PH) and turns milky white until its mixed thoroughly. IMO I wouldn't add any PH buffer of any kind, just measure alkalinity and maintain it between 7 and 9DKH.

 

[Michaelgregg1]

Adding PH buffer is like adding Sodium bicarb(Alkalinity) to the tank, it raises alkalinity(which in turn raises PH) and turns milky white until its mixed thoroughly. IMO I wouldn't add any PH buffer of any kind, just measure alkalinity and maintain it between 7 and 9DKH.

OK, thanks for the info. It's nearly clear now so will test levels again tonight and if all is OK I might add some fish at the weekend

 

[Michaelgregg1]

I don't know how much experience you have in reefing or aquariums but I had a very big problem with super high alkalinity from senselessly dosing a ph buffer. I immediately stopped when numerous people and articles read told me that for the most part they shouldn't be used at all, and if they are, only by experienced people. Again idk how much experience you have, I just want to help you avoid a bigger problem before it happens. just my two cents

Thanks. I've also read that about ph buffers.