Low Iron

[tcoyle]

So I just got the Red Sea Colors test kit and it shows my iron is low at 0ppm. Is this something I should correct? From what I have read of Randy's documents I'm a bit confused as to the need to adjust it. I do have some chateo in my sump and it grows at a decent rate for me, but not sure if this is anything to be concerned about.

 

[ndz98]

The iron level you should have is so low that the test kit won't pick it up. That being said, 0 ppm is actually not low. There is no need to adjust it.

 

[tcoyle]

Ok, it was just weird as the test hit says ok level is .06 so I didn't know if it's something to adjust or not.

 

[ndz98]

Yea typically in the ocean the iron level is .000006 ppm. So you should be good.

 

[jsker]

I dose trace elements. I test with RS colors kit just to check. I do not use the coral colors. Look at what each element does for color. If you are looking for an over all fix, look in to the balling method.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I've never understood why Red Sea recommends such a huge iron level. I've dosed iron for many years, but even when I dose it doesn't get that high, then it drops over time before the next dose. Red Sea may have some evidence in their tanks that it is useful to be that high, but I'm not convinced it is desirable. I'm even ont eh fence as to whether iron dosing is optimal unless you grow macroalgae or use a ATS.

Here are my two iron articles:

Chemistry And The Aquarium: Iron In A Reef Tank ? Advanced Aquarist | Aquarist Magazine and Blog
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/aug2002/chem.htm

Chemistry And The Aquarium: Iron: A Look At Organisms Other Than Macroalgae ? Advanced Aquarist | Aquarist Magazine and Blog
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/oct2002/chem.htm

 

[tcoyle]

Thanks Randy.. I read those and was confused because of the Red Sea numbers. Thanks for your input. I won't worry about then.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

You're welcome.

Happy Reefing.