Water levels saltwater tank

[Potter36]

So trying to figure out where my water levels should be to keep a healthy reef tank. I have 3 corals currently and none of them are doing so hot. I have a Duncan that won’t bloom anymore, a leather tree that won’t perk up and a red trumpet(I think) that is loosing color. Any suggestions?? I test pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, phosphate, calcium, and recently started testing alkalinity.

 

[Spieg]

Might help to state your test results...
I don't chase numbers to these exact levels but try to stay close to;
Temp 78-79* F
Salinity 1.026
Alk 8.5
Calcium 440
Magnesium 1375
Ammonia 0 (rarely test this once tank is cycled)
Nitrite at or near zero (rarely test this once tank is cycled)
Nitrate 5-15
Phosphate 0.03 - 0.1 (you need a quality test kit for these levels)
pH 8.2 -8.4
If water becomes discolored (yellow), I run filter carbon. I also run ICP test a couple of times a year to see where my trace elements are and dose accordingly.

 

[elorablue]

Do you mean your parameters?
Here's a very rough guide.
Temp 78 ish
Salinity 1.026
Phosphate 0.03 - 0.2
Nitrite 0
ammonia 0
Nitrate 5-20
Alkalinity 7-12
Calcium above 400 less than 550
Magnesium 1300-1550
ph 7.8- 8.5
Anywhere in these ranges can work but the key is that they don't change much if at all

edit: ah geez beat me to it.

 

[vic5hands]

Is this what you are looking for

 

[Garf]

Read this, then read it again ;

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-05/rhf/

 

[Idech]

Read this, then read it again ;

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-05/rhf/

I’ve read it and one thing surprises me. The author says most reefers strive to keep nitrates below 0.2 ppm.

I have 0 nitrates in my 4 months old reef and I have been advised on this forum to raise my nitrates to 5-10 ppm to help my corals grow.

Which is true ?

 

[Garf]

I’ve read it and one thing surprises me. The author says most reefers strive to keep nitrates below 0.2 ppm.

I have 0 nitrates in my 4 months old reef and I have been advised on this forum to raise my nitrates to 5-10 ppm to help my corals grow.

Which is true ?

In 2005 ish, lower nitrate was always better, as was phosphate, probably because it was a struggle to do both. These are still valid but there is a movement which suggests a “pool” of nutrients is beneficial. There are few absolutes in this hobby, one of which is Randy’s dedication to the truth. I’m glad you actually read it