High calcium, low alkanity. What should I do?

[hexcolor reef]

Some update:

LFS has only API tests too, so their reading of my calcium is 580.

I did a 20% WC.

Yesterday for the first time after 4 months, I moved my torch coral from sand up to the shelf, and this morning I noticed both heads got 2nd mouth. So, that's a sign of splitting right? How is possible torch to split, but he never fully expanded?

Thanks.

If a torch isn’t fully extended and has been retracting a lot and you noticed 2 mouths on each head that is a sign of splitting. It could’ve been in the process of splitting when you purchased it.

 

[dansyr]

Some update:

LFS has only API tests too, so their reading of my calcium is 580.

I did a 20% WC.

Yesterday for the first time after 4 months, I moved my torch coral from sand up to the shelf, and this morning I noticed both heads got 2nd mouth. So, that's a sign of splitting right? How is possible torch to split, but he never fully expanded?

Thanks.

Hot take: API Alk and Cal tests will be fine for now. Maybe upgrade to Salifert or Hanna after you're run out. Or if you like gear, go for it immediately, do what brings the joy of reefing to you. But consistency (and not running one number up alone) will make life better. API might not be as accurate or precise as better kits, but in my experience it's been consistent. With API you might not be sure your alk is 7 vs 6.5 vs 7.5, but you have a reading and that's information, just aim to keep it within 1dkh of that and you're good.

 

[marcosnano]

double check your test - and if true dose alkalinity as discussed

how can I dose alkanity, with baking soda or?

 

[marcosnano]

If a torch isn’t fully extended and has been retracting a lot and you noticed 2 mouths on each head that is a sign of splitting. It could’ve been in the process of splitting when you purchased it.

About my torch, I bought it less then 3 months ago in LFS, it had 2 heads, and it was fully and beautifully extended in their frag tank. Since then he never fully extended in my tank, but his tenacles were thick and fat most of the times, 2 inches long, and I was thinking my tank is not mature enough for it to extend, as long it's not retrieving I was thinking it's still healthy and I will give it some time. I also tried with many other positions in tank (but always down in the sand), different flow options and different lighting, but it never extended.

Recently I noticed my new sexy anemone shrimps are attached to it so I moved torch into the shelf above so it wont be bothered by them, and only 24 hours later - I noticed a new mouths on each head.

I'm excited to see what's next for the torch.

 

[MnFish1]

how can I dose alkanity, with baking soda or?

There are a number of calculators out there - BRS has one. You pick your tank volume, and the amount you want to increase - and they give you the numbers.

 

[Spare time]

Add PH up it will raise your KH levels as well.
only way to get rid of calcium is water change.

Or by growing coral, coralline, etc.

 

[Spare time]

I used to have calcium at 600 by accident and nothing bad happened. I don't think high calcium is a concern outside precipitation.

 

[marcosnano]

There are a number of calculators out there - BRS has one. You pick your tank volume, and the amount you want to increase - and they give you the numbers.

I found this one: https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reef-calculator/alkalinity-calculator-reef

Should I dose all the baking soda at once or should I spread it out in few days?

Thanks

 

[MnFish1]

I found this one: https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reef-calculator/alkalinity-calculator-reef

Should I dose all the baking soda at once or should I spread it out in few days?

Thanks

Whatever mehotod you decide to dose - I would dose 1/5 over 5 days. I'm not a veterinarian. You do that you think is right. IMHO - Slower the better

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Watch brsTV

Why?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I found this one: https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reef-calculator/alkalinity-calculator-reef

Should I dose all the baking soda at once or should I spread it out in few days?

Thanks

I recommend this calculator knowing it is accurate for a wide range of products:

Reef Chemistry Calculator

How much are you trying to raise alk?

0.5 dKH per day is a reasonable start.

 

[marcosnano]

I recommend this calculator knowing it is accurate for a wide range of products:

Reef Chemistry Calculator

How much are you trying to raise alk?

0.5 dKH per day is a reasonable start.

I raised from 6.1 dKH to 8.7 dKH in 4 days with baking soda.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I raised from 6.1 dKH to 8.7 dKH in 4 days with baking soda.

Keep us updated.