IO reef crystal and starting a tank

[jrhorn44]

I’m new to the forms and also new to saltwater tanks. My question is can you start a salt water tank using instant ocean reef crystal or should I use the regular instant ocean. I want to start with 1 or 2 different types of coral and probably 2 clownfish.

Tank: 75 gallons
Sump: 40gallons

 

[jsker]

Welcome to R2R

I would suggest starting with the regular IO the switching the reef crystal with you start adding corals.

 

[jrhorn44]

Welcome to R2R

I would suggest starting with the regular IO the switching the reef crystal with you start adding corals.

I already have reef crystal cause I bought it at 50% off. I guess I’ll have to order some of the regular stuff.

 

[jsker]

LOL, reef crystals just have higher alk, Ca, Mg and additives for a growing reef. I started mine with reef crystals and you can too. Just be prepared to test higher with the alk, Ca, Mg until you get corals that start consuming the key elements

 

[Maggie321]

I used reef crystals. It worked fine in my tank. I say go for it!

 

[mjlash22]

Perfectly fine, especially since you got a good deal! Maybe overkill to start but should be fine. Just keep in mind when adding livestock, you will want to ensure you properly acclimate as they are more than likely coming from a system with lower levels of the 3.