First time Cupramine use

[krzyphsygy]

I agree the API is a lousy kit. The color differences are so subtle that you have to resort to guesswork. I find myself walking around, squinting at the sample in different lighting, in a vain attempt to deduce what the reading is - then showing it to the wife for a second opinion, and watching HER twist around squinting at it. I have not used any other Cu kit, but before my next fish purchase, I will acquire one.

In answer to your question, it is my understanding that Cu levels cannot vary on their own. And that Cu doesn't break down, or evaporate, or get consumed in any meaningful amount. The only way (in my understanding!) that the Cu level can fluctuate is through evaporation/topoff/WC's, or if the reefer unwisely uses natural rock or substrate in the QT which may absorb some of the copper.

But someone may correct me on that.

Your right on, however I still test daily to be sure the level is correct. When doing a water change, I have matched the copper levels in the new batch to that of the qt to eliminate any possibility of the parasite getting a break. Top off multiple times a day to be consistent . Knock on wood, my hippo is in the DT ich free. With recommendation I treated him for 30 days at .50 ppm.

 

[krzyphsygy]

3 week observation period after that!

 

[HumbleFish]

I agree the API is a lousy kit. The color differences are so subtle that you have to resort to guesswork. I find myself walking around, squinting at the sample in different lighting, in a vain attempt to deduce what the reading is - then showing it to the wife for a second opinion, and watching HER twist around squinting at it. I have not used any other Cu kit, but before my next fish purchase, I will acquire one.

In answer to your question, it is my understanding that Cu levels cannot vary on their own. And that Cu doesn't break down, or evaporate, or get consumed in any meaningful amount. The only way (in my understanding!) that the Cu level can fluctuate is through evaporation/topoff/WC's, or if the reefer unwisely uses natural rock or substrate in the QT which may absorb some of the copper.

But someone may correct me on that.

+1 API is only necessary if you are treating with chelated copper (i.e. Coppersafe), and need a "total copper test kit" to measure in the high range. Otherwise, use Seachem or Salifert; much easier to read when using ionic copper (i.e. Cupramine).

 

[dixiedog]

Thanks, humblefish!