Phosphate Question

[jeflen651]

I was using BRS phosphate remover in a media bag to control my phosphates and realized about a month ago that my nutrition level was low in my tank and my corals were not happy. At that time my phosphates were at 0, so I removed the phosphate remover and after a month without, the phosphate is at .09 (Hanna checker) and my corals are looking good again. The rest of my parameters are: Ph -8.0 , Alk - 9.9, Cal 410, nitrates - 0, ammonia - 0, Mag - 1300. My tank consists of lps and softies and 5 fish in a 40 gallon breeder. Should I use the phosphate remover to get the phosphate level down or leave it be as long as everything looks healthy.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Reasonable target levels without being too low are 0.01 to 0.03 ppm. You could lower it more, but unless you have an algae issue, I wouldn't start yet and risk lowering too far. Or start slower with less media.

 

[jeflen651]

Thanks for your reply. Are most phosphate removers created equally? I am using BRS, would you suggest using something different?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Thanks for your reply. Are most phosphate removers created equally? I am using BRS, would you suggest using something different?

Assuming you mean the reddish brown material (GFO), most are similar. It's a fine pick. I used it for years.