Cause of low magnesium

[dbartkow]

What would cause low magnesium levels? I just got my Salifert Mg test kit and my mag level came in at 240. I was amazed it was so low. I tested it again, just to be sure, and it came out the same again.

I am wondering why would it be so low. I use Reef Crystals salt and do 20% water changed every other week. Where is all the magnesium going?

Any insight is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Dave

 

[dbartkow]

Okay, maybe I am just confused. Anyone familiar with the Salifert Mg test kit? I might be reading the chart backwards.

I dispensed .84ml of mg-3 regent to turn from pink to blue. By the included chart, does that give me 240ppm of Mg or 1260ppm of Mg?

Thanks,
Dave

 

[Mariner]

Don't use how much you've dispensed, just go by the number on the side of the syringe... should be 1.6 or something like that in your case. Your mag is 1260.
hth,
Mariner

 

[Billybeau1]

You are reading backwards.

1260 ppm magnesium is very much the norm for Reef Crystals mixed at 35 ppt.

 

[melev]

Yes, they are both telling you the truth. When you look at the syringe, you want to see where the plunger is located after the vial's color has changed. Whatever is still left, that is the number you want to know.

That is the case with all of the Salifert tests that use that method (Alk, Ca, Mg).

 

[dbartkow]

Thank you everyone. That makes more sense now.

Dave

 

[Billybeau1]

Hi Uncle Marc

 

[melev]

I figured I'd get a little ribbing for entering your chemistry forum. :lol: It only happens on rare occasions.

 

[Billybeau1]

It's good to see ya.

Happy Holidays.