Looking for input/thoughts on Amino Acids...

[Johnny C]

It seems as though a large majority of people on this forum with SPS-Dominated aquariums dose Amino Acids to improve coral coloration and growth. I'm not too familiar with them and most of the people I know locally with SPS tanks don't use it or believe in it.

I have a 57G tank that I'm slowly stacking with colorful SPS. My parameters are great (I test with Salifert/Hanna regularly) but I'd like to boost the colors of my Acropora a bit without having to dose a plethora of chemicals or buying even more equipment.

I used to think it was just a bunch of hype but in seeing some of your tanks I'm starting to doubt myself. Thoughts or opinion(s)? Help me out!

 

[Baros]

Here's a good article on Amino acids.

http://www.coralscience.org/main/articles/nutrition-6/amino-acids

 

[Johnny C]

Thanks for the article, I'll look it over tonight. Anyone else?

 

[aurora]

I don't think a large majority dose AA. Put up a survey and see for yourself. I'm more sold on water clarity, stability, flow and appropriate lighting as the main factors for colors.

 

[Stanley-Reefer]

For me a cheap and effective source has been Kent's coral accel.

 

[Peter Eichler]

I don't think a large majority dose AA. Put up a survey and see for yourself. I'm more sold on water clarity, stability, flow and appropriate lighting as the main factors for colors.

I agree, and there's nothing to suggest dosing amino acids should be dosed since corals usually synthesize their own amino acids. Amino acids are little more than a fad supplement and most of the people that dose and claim to see benefits would get the same benefits from feeding a little more.