ALK Consumption

[kalendo]

So I have been trying to get my parameters inline so I can start dosing Tropic Marin All-For-Reef and using the Red Sea recipe as what parameters to use for growth rate "exceptional"

Parameters (Recommended):

Ca: 465
Mg: 1390
ALK: 12
Nitrate: 2
Phosphate: 0.1

Currently using the API Test kits,
CA: 460
MG: DNT
ALK: 10
Nitrate: DNT
Phosphate: 0

I have been dosing Reef Carbonate daily to reach 12 ALK. I dose about 18ml which should get it to 12 and the next day I test and its back to 10. Is it normal for my consumption to be that fast or is my test reagent bad. I am using the API test for now, I do have the Hanna checker but I need a new reagent and spoon which will be ordered today.

 

[iamacat]

This is not a recipe for success!

 

[Troylee]

Get some real test kit and try again! You’re heading for disaster right now.

 

[kalendo]

Yep, I will probably have to do a water change today and wait till I get my reagents for the Hanna. So to answer the question, the ALK consumption is not normal.

Forgot to mention my stock:

1 Headed Gold Indo Torch
1 Headed Duncan
Green Goniopora
Red Goniopora
4 fragged stylophoras
2 fragged montipora digitatas
1 fragged Hydropona
4 headed Paly
3 headed Zoa
1 RBTA

 

[kalendo]

Tested today with Hanna, got 9.3 and tested with API and gotten 9 added some seachem reef carbonate to increase alk and will test a hour from now

 

[kalendo]

Tested after adding 20ml and got 10.5