When and What to start Testing

MikeyS22 · Dec 21, 2019

Hey everyone,

So far I have used my Salifert Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate test kits, and also used my API Master test kit for pretty well the same thing, and a Hanna Phosphate checker. I just wanted a second "opinion" as I'm new to the hobby and to the testing. Figured if I used two completely different test methods and they line up pretty close than I'm obviously doing the test properly.

I would like to get some corals, and I'm actually getting a little starter pack of frags given to me today from a fellow reefer, so my question is, is it necessary to start testing for the other stuff immediately for softies and what not. Like calc, mag, etc.?

**What should I start testing and when?**

Thanks guys!!

stanleo · Dec 21, 2019

I would test for mag, cal, and alk before adding the corals and then every week after though I like to test alk daily to tell if I should dose alk that day or not.

PatW · Dec 21, 2019

The API test really is not accurate enough for ALC for hard corals. It measures in single units. The Salifert ALC test gives results in a tenth of a unit giving one better control.

I run SPS corals. SPS corals do not like high nutrient levels but they have to have some. It is easy having too much nitrate and or phosphate if you do not test. I measure nitrate, phosphate, and ALC. Water changes maintain mg so I test that about once per month and always get the same result. I measure phosphate and the only test that is sensitive enough is the Hanna ULR.