phosphate question

[Mstanker]

I just got a media reactor in and i also bought rowaphos and some active carbon. I just tested my phosphate with api test kit. Im showing 0ppm the color is yellow. In my reactor should i just run the carbon until my lvls start to go up in phosphate??

 

[Nitr8]

I just got a media reactor in and i also bought rowaphos and some active carbon. I just tested my phosphate with api test kit. Im showing 0ppm the color is yellow. In my reactor should i just run the carbon until my lvls start to go up in phosphate??

IMO, 0ppm PO4 is not a target to shoot for. I shoot for .02-.04. Corals will loose color in a total absence of PO4.

 

[Mstanker]

This is the first time of testing for phosphate, whats making me have 0

 

[Nitr8]

This is the first time of testing for phosphate, whats making me have 0

You need a better test kit. If you look at the card the next step up from 0 is .25. Something is seriously wrong if you ever read that high. I use a Hanna checker and double check that against a Red sea kit from time to time. Both are great means.

 

[Mstanker]

I just got the test kit, it might be bad, but this is my tank and duncan coral

 

[SantaMonica]

Your tank is still very new. Rocks absorb phosphate for the first 12 to 18 months, making it seem like your levels are low or good. Then when the rocks fill up, you'll start getting algae outbreaks and you won't know why since you have been doing the same thing since day one. The thing that changed was: the rocks are full.

 

[D maul]

Your tank is still very new. Rocks absorb phosphate for the first 12 to 18 months, making it seem like your levels are low or good. Then when the rocks fill up, you'll start getting algae outbreaks and you won't know why since you have been doing the same thing since day one. The thing that changed was: the rocks are full.

Well said

 

[Mstanker]

Alright thanks for the great info. I didnt know that. I posted in the reef aqu dissc. forum about some white stuff floating in my tank anyone mind going an reviewing the post for me.

https://www.reef2reef.com/forums/reef-aquarium-discussion/167933-floating-stuff-my-water.html