nitrate/phosphate relation

[totem420]

pretty simple question (i think...), looking for some simple answers. I don't have anything to test phosphates and im going through some troubleshooting as to why some of my zoas and acans are not doing well.

it is safe to assume that if my nitrates are at 0 then phosphates are at 0? my nitrate tester is api

mag 1420
alk 7.9
cal 420
ph 8
tested with red sea pro test kit

 

[Giancarlo]

I would consider what you do to keep your nitrates at 0. If its Consistent water changes then yes it would be reasonable to think phosphates are at a normal level. To say exactly at 0 though you couldn't be sure. There could be other indicators like algae on glass and so on. Depends how deep you want to get into it, and for what reasons. Acans and zoo's I would look into other variables, possibly too much lighting?

 

[Nemoose]

What is your source of water for water changes? If you are not using RO water then it is possile you are introducing phosphates from the source water. So, in that case there may be no relationship between nitrate and phosphate levels. I would suggest you get a full reef keeper test kit. The investment is worth it to save your corals.

 

[robert]

No - normal maintenance - water changes - does not export nitrate and phosphate in a balanced way - more nitrate is removed while phosphate tends to stay behind.
The first sign of an imbalance is cyano. If you're not seeing cyano then I wouldn't be too concerned with the phosphate level.

"0" nitrate would not be ideal for many zoas. You'd probably find they do better with more nitrate available. 5-15 range.

 

[Robert@MD]

Its pretty much impossible to say for sure, nitrate and phosphates have no direct correlation. I have to agree with above, if Cyano and Diatoms are not evident or persistent, your probably fine.

 

[totem420]

i use RO water and do weekly 5 gal water changes on my 29 gal tank. i have tried the lighting but i have zoas in higher light than others and some are good some are not, i have a 60w led fixture about 30in above the tank. i believe my 0 nitrates are from WCs and a sump full of marcos: calurpa mex, halimeda and chaeto. i dont get cyno but i do from time to time get diatoms from the deep sand bed. i get great growth out of my acros and i feel like my zoas should be doing better. i also dose aquavitro fuel.

thanks everyone