low magnesium

[coralbeauties]

I would like to know how a magnesium level of 980 would effect sps corals? I understand it would inhibit growth but would it cause pale coloration and possible stn? I have been experiencing stn, loss of color, and decreased p/e and am trying to figure it all out. I tested my water with a different test kit today and found my mg level to be at 980. Just trying to sort it all out.
thanks
Jeff

 

[CoralNerd]

What's your calcium and alkalinity at?
Magnesium allows calcium and alkalinity to bind. You should bring the mag up to 1400

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Do you know how the magnesium got there? If not, it may be testing error or very low salinity.

Magnesium doesn't just happen to arrive at 980 ppm without something seriously in error (except very long term dosing of calcium and alkalinity without any magnesium).

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

What's your calcium and alkalinity at?
Magnesium allows calcium and alkalinity to bind. You should bring the mag up to 1400

Actually, that's not a good way to describe it. Magnesium helps prevent the combination of calcium and alkalinity to form calcium carbonate on things like pumps and heaters. Also, while 1400 ppm is OK, it is higher than natural levels and higher than necessary. 1280 ppm is the magnesium level in typical 35 ppt seawater.