can a sand bed leach nitrate

[mikeatjac]

I am under the impression that a sand bed can leach PO if not well maintanted but can it also leach nitrates?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

The breakdown of organics in sand (or anywhere else) can lead to released nitrate and phosphate. If those organics are otherwise removed, then that breakdown doesn't happen. If those organics just settle out elsewhere in the system then having the sand bed itself will not "cause" any more nitrate to be released.

Sand beds do have the potential for denitrification, which causes nitrate to be reduced in the water. So they can and often are permanent sinks for nitrate.

 

[mikeatjac]

Thanks

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You're welcome.

These articles may be useful:

Phosphorus: Algaeââ"šÂ¬Ã¢"žÂ¢s Best Friend
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/sept2002/chem.htm

Nitrate in the Reef Aquarium
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/august2003/chem.htm


Happy reefing.