Super high nitrates on test kit

[Trivia702]

Hey all, I just did a test on my tank and the api test for nitrates showed that I have 80+ ppm nitrates. I know API can be rough so I have ordered a salifert test. My corals have been doing fine and everything is opening as expected. I also have been running into the issue of my hanna checker getting 0.00 readings on my phosphates. Have been heavily feeding to try and raise them with no luck. Fear my over feeding may lead to super heightened nitrates. At a loss of how to get my phosphates up and my nitrates down (implying that the test isnt messed up) Any help would be great!

 

[jccaclimber]

A nitrate level of 80 is well within the realm of possibility. While not how I run my tank, I have seen thriving SPS systems with higher nitrate levels.
Fortunately for you, changing water and siphoning the substrate will get your nitrates down, assuming you aren’t just putting them back in via food. Phosphate is easy enough to dose directly until it stays where you want it to.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

At a loss of how to get my phosphates up and my nitrates down (implying that the test isnt messed up) Any help would be great!

Assuming both tests are accurate, phosphate dosing is easy. Food grade sodium phosphate is inexpensive. Amazon sells several brands.