CalRX has spiked my calcium.. what do I do?

[gideon2086]

Not sure what to do about this. I recently setup a reactor for my SPS dominant 220g. Almost immediately my calcium readings (apex) jumped from 420 to 650+, where they have remained at for a few weeks now. The alk has stayed relatively stable at about 8.5. I’ve noticed that some of my colonies are showing signs of stress.. and some are losing tissue.

how do I fix this?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I do not believe this is accurate. Most likely test error, or you added a different chemical to your reactor than calcium carbonate.

For calcium to rise by 200+ ppm would cause alk to rise by 28 dKH.

 

[gideon2086]

I do not believe this is accurate. Most likely test error, or you added a different chemical to your reactor than calcium carbonate.

For calcium to rise by 200+ ppm would cause alk to rise by 28 dKH.

I thought the same, minus the math to back the theory up. I recalibrated the trident and opened a new reagent. I have not taken the step of using a separate test, but will tonight.

I’m using the two little fishies media.

 

[jda]

Get some cheap and reliable tests - salifert works. I have used CaRx for a few decades and while over many months or a year, the balance can wander (likely more from consumption than addition), I don't know how this is possible in a short timeframe.

My guess is that whatever is reading your calcium is in error. If it is a trident, or the like, they are the weakest link in the chain.