no3 /po4

[leemajors]

just a general question (newbie)


can it or is it possible to get 0 no3 and 0 po4 readings , by using an oversized skimmer, biopellets, gfo, and vodka dosing in a system, with heavy fish load 18 fish
thanks

 

[redfishbluefish]

You actually don't want zero's for nitrates and phosphates....you do need a pinch for the corals.

But your answer is YES, it is possible to get nitrates and phosphates to acceptable levels with proper tank maintanance and some type(s) of export systems for the nasties. You also don't want to overskim with an oversized skimmer. But again, it can be done with properly sized equipment and filtering systems. Plenty have done it with conventional skimmer/refugium/GFO/carbon dosing/etc. You didn't mention it, but I've also heard success with NatuReef system to export the nitrates and phosphates.

 

[leemajors]

what numbers of no3 and po4 should left

THX

 

[redfishbluefish]

what numbers of no3 and po4 should left

THX

I shall refer you to THIS STICKY by Dr. Randy. Happy reading!

 

[JimWelsh]

How are you measuring PO4? If you are getting unmeasurable readings, I suspect the test kit you are using may not be sensitive enough for your needs. I like the ELOS Phosphate Pro test kit. Others prefer the Hannah checker.