Rapid calcium drop after alkalinity spike?

[Aaron Atkinson]

hi. So I accidentally left my alkalinity solution (BRS 2 part) pump running overnight after trying to prime the line following a jug change. I woke up to a very cloudy tank and unhappy occupants. After changing roughly 30 of 50 gallons, the alkalinity is normal again, roughly 8.5. I checked calcium at 24o.

Was all the white powdery stuff precipitate? Is it normal to see such an immense calcium drop off following this type of event?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Dr. Reef Verified Sponsor]

Yes it was precipitation and drop in Cal is direct result of it. You can dose slowly about 50ppm per day back to your stable number.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I'd wait until the water is clear before any more alk or calcium testing, since calcium carbonate particles in the water will dissolve in the test and lead to false high readings.