Definition of Stability

[IXP7633]

I was wondering what people define as stable within the confines of their parameters. As a newbie I see this term thrown around, but I'm not sure what range that would be. Within the last 3 weeks alkalinity has been between 8.2-8.6 with the goal being 8.5. My calcium has been between 415-445 goal being 425. Would this fall under the range of stable? Or do I need to be tighter in my range? I also usually see a jump around .2-.4 in my alkalinity after water changes. Is this to much of a swing if my long term aspirations are sps?

 

[boacvh]

I had the same newbie question. Not long ago someone did a poll here and the answers were all over the place. But majority had alk swings of 0 to 1 dkh per day as acceptable.
Check link here

Poll: Acceptable daily swing in Alkalinity?

We've done a few polls regarding parameters. In each one, Alkalinity has always been considered to be the highest priority when it comes to monitoring and stability. A member, @Bryn, brought up a good question. Our goal should be minimal swing and that can be accomplished via programmed...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[stanleo]

That seems pretty stable to me. I test on the same day at the same time once a week and record every test on a chart. If the line is fairly straight then I think everything is stable.

 

[X-37B]

For me its pick the parameters levels you want to run;
Temp <2°F per day
Sg 1.026 +-? easy with ato
Alk +- .5
Ca +- 20
Mg +- 20
No3 2-5
Po4 .02-.1
Par level-need par meter to know levels.
Water changes if you do them. Be consistent!
Keep them as close as possible to the numbers you have selected with no wide swings. These levels are fairly easy to achieve.
For me this is "Stability".
Your levels look good. Now the work begins to keep them stable.
Your on the right track.