QT nutrients and macroalgae

[adamwheel]

Doing a search, I've seen this topic discussed in several threads.

I have not seen nutrients discussed.

I have ordered some macro frags and am interested in placing them in a freshly mixed QT. Thinking a simple daylight CFL from Home Depot for QT (unless there's a cheap/smarter alternative). I have a much better light for the display refugium once they make it that far.

Question: Will they survive with freshly mixed saltwater or do they need nutrients from a bioload to thrive?

Thanks in advance,

Adam

 

[phobos2deimos]

Some macros are less finicky with nutrient deficiency, while some will die off very quickly.
You'll typically need some amount of nitrate, phosphate, and potassium (I'm assuming that macros have similar requirements to plants). You can dose those nutrients directly, or just feed the tank and let the rotting food supply nutrients, or (like Subsea does) dose good ole ammonia and let the biological filter convert it to nitrate.

If your QT will be running copper and/or perhaps other meds, you will probably find that the plants absorb the meds and reduce/eliminate its effectiveness.

 

[adamwheel]

Thank you for the reply.

You've confirmed my suspicions.

Adam

 

[phobos2deimos]

Thank you for the reply.

You've confirmed my suspicions.

Adam

:beer: