Nutrient balance question

Treenk · Jan 1, 2020

So my po4 got pretty high .25 so I got some phosguard now my p04 is 0 maybe .03 but it's hard to tell, and my nitrates are around 15-18. Is the off balance a problem?

Retro Reefer · Jan 2, 2020

IMO those are good numbers, maybe get your no3 down a little but your close.. approximately 100 to 1 No3-Po4 is where you want to be.

Treenk · Jan 2, 2020

Thanks I took out the phosguard for now I think I need to figure it out better it dropped fast with it

Uncle99 · Jan 3, 2020

Assuming mixed reef, .25 is not either too high or out of balance with your nitrate level.
Mine has always been .20 and nitrates 10ppm

Treenk · Jan 4, 2020

Hm yeah actually my tank was doing fine the way it was too. now that I dropped the po4 I'm getting green hair algae. Sigh now I know what they mean by dont chase numbers.

X-37B · Jan 4, 2020

With phosgaurd I would recommend a very small amount in a bag dropped in the sump. Then monitor every day as it is strong. By small I would use 1/4 the recommended dose and see what your levels are.
Thay way it drops slowly and is easier to control.

Uncle99 · Jan 4, 2020

Absolutely correct, If corals doing well, I am not so much interested in the numbers.

Treenk · Jan 4, 2020

90's reefer said:
With phosgaurd I would recommend a very small amount in a bag dropped in the sump. Then monitor every day as it is strong. By small I would use 1/4 the recommended dose and see what your levels are.
Thay way it drops slowly and is easier to control.

Yeah messed that one up left it in like a week and then tested and it was a flat zero. We learn as we go I suppose nothing's dead. Thanks for info though