Vodka and vinager

[Joel Jordan]

Hello everyone

Can somebody explain me the REAL use of Vodka and Vinager in an aquarium, Ive been seen some posts regarding this but not quite sure whats the use

 

[chipmunkofdoom2]

Organic carbon sources (like sugar, the ethanol in vodka and the acetic acid in vinegar) grow bacteria in the water column. As bacteria grow, they use nitrates and phosphates from the water around them. If you have a good skimmer, the bacteria are skimmed out, which results in a net reduction of dissolved nitrates and phosphates.

For some more reading: http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2008-08/nftt/index.php

 

[Zeal]

I clean my filter socks with Vinegar and RO/DI water.

 

[TripleDogDareYah]

As a carbon source vodka is much more potent than vinegar which is the main reason I use it. I also like to think the fish enjoy a little night cap.

 

[Joel Jordan]

Thank you guys for the info

 

[User1]

Sure hope a cheap Vodka is used...otherwise the tank wouldn't be getting it and I'd be wrecked!

 

[Zeal]

How much vodka is should I dose in a tank?

I drink The Russian Standard and I wouldn't mind sharing it with my fish

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

An additional substantial benefit, IMO, is that the bacteria can act as a food source for filter feeders.

For that reason, it is not entirely unreasonable to even dose N and P and carbon dose at the same time.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

As a carbon source vodka is much more potent than vinegar which is the main reason I use it. I also like to think the fish enjoy a little night cap.

When you say more "potent" presumably you just mean that it comes more concentrated. There is a molecular potency difference that was the basis of a Reef Chemistry question of the day, but few reefers know or care about that.

Why is that a benefit? Some would say it is a detriment, meaning that you may have less control over dosing times and amounts with typical dosing pumps.

I actually prefer vinegar for other reasons, unrelated to concentration, but people use both to good effect.

 

[User1]

So it is one or the other?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

So it is one or the other?

I'm not sure what you are asking, but many people dose a mixture of vodka and vinegar. NOPOX has a similar composition with some other minor components (possibly impurities..

I've never heard a believable reason why a mix is desirable, but I also see nothing wrong with it.

 

[declanisadog]

So it is one or the other?

I've heard of people mixing them, but they all serve the same basic purpose. To me one is enough if you so choose. NOPOX from redsea is basically the same idea also.

 

[declanisadog]

Randy beat me to the punch.

 

[User1]

I'm not sure what you are asking, but many people dose a mixture of vodka and vinegar. NOPOX has a similar composition with some other minor components (possibly impurities..

I've never heard a believable reason why a mix is desirable, but I also see nothing wrong with it.

Apologies for not being more clear - but you answered it. Thanks

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Apologies for not being more clear - but you answered it. Thanks

You're welcome.

Happy Reefing.