how has doesing 2 part changed your reefingand is it for me?

Devaji · Jul 3, 2017

yeah my needs are pretty low as of now mostly LPS in the tank. i'll have to test my Ca again but it was in the acceptable range last time I checked but will get the latest figures.

but this brings up a question I have wondered about for quite a long time. using cheaper salt like reg. IO then adding your Ca,mg alk and maybe a splash of trace elements or just go with a "better" salt and not dose at all. I know each tank needs are different but how did you and why decide to go the way you did?

saltyfilmfolks · Jul 3, 2017

Why do you think IO is cheap salt? Or rather a less good choice?
Define "better".

The idea behind more frequent water changes is you maintain the levels of the salt mix. Thus eliminating the need for supplemental element dosing.

For me IO is inexpensive and the dosing method is too. I'm not competing in the best tank ever contest I just like (love) having tanks and great growth on my stony corals(lps included) So eliminating $150 to $200 in salt and dosing elements makes sense.

And personally I se no difference between lps and sps as far as C/A/M needs. Both are stony corals.

Devaji · Jul 3, 2017

Oh in no way was I saying IO was bad or cheap I have been using in on and off for 10 yeas.(along with kent back in the day)

I just know alot of ppl would say there is "better" salt.and I am with you difine better...?

I guess what I am wondering is a
Coast vrs performance thing here. Say take reg. IO then dose to keep the leveks you want or buy the most expense salt and Just do water changes? Seams like the 1st would be a better option. Unless I am missing something that's in the salt and my tank needs it?

saltyfilmfolks · Jul 3, 2017

That turns into the great salt debate.
Personally I think it's more comfort factor than anything. You can in fact make your own salt and add all those elements. From what I understand the brands just have different levels of trace elements.

For me, I'm not trying to become a chemist or more importantly biologist. For some that's what they like about the hobby and express strong feelings and opinions about the salt mixes, wether those opinions are based in fact is a different story.

I've seen some of the most amazing tanks done with IO and a calcium reactor. Eventually that's the rout I will likely take.