Phosphates & nitrates really low

[Reef-_-Noob]

My tank has been without water change for 3 months and the nitrates and phosphates have gone all the way down nearly undetectable.

Alk is 8.5-9 calcium 460 and mag is 1400

The parameters are pretty stable but the corals are not popping. Growth has slowed a little bit. I'm running chemi clean and carbon and a protein skimmer 24/7.

Is it a good idea to shut off protein skimmer for a few days so that nutrients climb a little?

Not dealing with algae at the moment
Picture is from a couple weeks ago before colors declined

 

[blaxsun]

Yes, turning off the skimmer for a few days could help. You can also leave any filter socks/filter floss in a bit longer as well. And you can feed more (voted the #1 option by reef fish everywhere!).

 

[Reef-_-Noob]

Will swing in nutrients upset corals? I am testing turning off skimmer during the day and turning on at night. Nitrate and phosphate Tests are not picking up much change in the 2 modes but the water clarity is visible in the morning compared to evening.

Calcium is 480
Mag 1550
Alk is steady 9.3
Ph >= 8.1 via api


I am dosing trace elements replenish. I am noticing some upset corals . Color and growth is going good but experiencing polyp shrinkage.

I am wondering if this off and on would be affecting the corals