Dudester
Premium Member
I was going to research it more before answering, but here's the gist of it. Zeolites function by ion exchange. That is, they absorb a charged particle and release a similarly charged particle. Not all zeolites are the same, some have an affinity for certain ions while others prefer different ions. The ZEOlites used in the ZEOvit method have a particular affinity for ammonium ions, and in exchange they release sodium and potassium. The ammonium absorbed onto the ZEOlith rock is used as nutrition for bacteria that are kept in relative high concentraion.<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11251010#post11251010 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cweder
Does anyone know why a higher alk causes problems using the zeo method and/or probidio method. I would think it may have something to do with the super low nutrients, but it would be good to know.
When carbonate hardness (alkalinity) is increased above 8 dKH, the ZEOliths begin to function differently in that they cannot absorb the ammonium as effectively. This results in a nutrient spike that can shock and harm corals that have adapted to a nutrient-poor environment. I'll read more about this and update if necessary, but I'm pretty sure this is accurate.