Alkalinity

[Baby Damsel 219]

I have 2 turbos in my 60g. I Have noticed that the front of there shells is yellow. It is not physical damage but chemical. I have low alkalinity any tips to raise naturally and will the shells ever go back to normal. this is what the front looks like.

 

[KrisReef]

I’m fairly certain that the growth of concern represents the shell accumulation that has happened during the recent period of growth in the aquarium environment that you provide. The discoloration looks more like algae than shell material. Your lower nutrient system allows the shell to grow without a significant amount of algae on top.

Lots more could be said about the situation but I have observed this with snails and clams that have been relocated. The fact that the snails are growing is a good sign imo.

 

[rishma]

Agree with the response above, but wanted to add that I think it’s fantastic that you look after your snails with care and concern. I love my snails.

 

[Baby Damsel 219]

same I am starting out my 60g but have been in the hobby since 2022

 

[Baby Damsel 219]

I have noticed them like this in my 20g. It's been like this for a couple months now. Then I bought 2 more and the other turned the same super fast. Then I transferred them over 2 weeks ago and they have been moving and eating.

 

[apeshot]

I think you’re good to go. New shell is clean shell. If you’re noticing these things, then rest assured that you’re paying attention to the details.

 

[Baby Damsel 219]

my alk in near 80

 

[apeshot]

my alk in near 80

80 or 8.0?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

If you mean 80 ppm calcium carbonate equivalents, that is very low (4.5 dKH) and I’d raise it with baking soda.

 

[Baby Damsel 219]

is a 60g so how do I add baking soda

 

[Baby Damsel 219]

can I kill any live stock by doing this

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

can I kill any live stock by doing this

So let’s back up. How did you measure alk and what were the units of measure?

Assuming that passes the reasonableness test, then try that out on some new salt water to see if you get reasonable values.