Using Additives

[TexasTim]

I have a 180 gallon tank with live rock and sand. Currently there are no corals in the tank, just fish.

Can I begin to take parameter readings of calcium, alkalinity and magnesium now, and set up my doser and begin dosing to keep the big three stable, then add corals?

 

[tmz]

If the tank has completed its initial cycling I would check the alkalinity and calcium, probably the magnesium too and go from there. Those three are used by coraline algae and other calcareous organisms as well as corals.

 

[Every1jockzjay]

Those levels should b spot on if its a new tank, the salt mix wil cover it for now. Once u add corals and get some coraline growth u need to monitor levela and add as needed, or once the levels drop a littttle wee bit statt veryyy small dosing. But until something uses calc, alk and mag ur levels should b spot on

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

This has more:

The “How To” Guide to Reef Aquarium Chemistry for Beginners, Part 2: What Chemicals Must be Supplemented
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-04/rhf/index.php