Going to do my first ICP test, some questions

[BriDroid]

I picked up a Fauna Marin ICP test with RO water. My main question is when is the best time to get the aquarium sample? Right before the weekly water change? Right after? Halfway through the week? I guess I’m asking is there a better time to get a snapshot of the tank, or does it even matter?

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

I picked up a Fauna Marin ICP test with RO water. My main question is when is the best time to get the aquarium sample? Right before the weekly water change? Right after? Halfway through the week? I guess I’m asking is there a better time to get a snapshot of the tank, or does it even matter?

Good question - I'd say right before a water change, as that would be a "worst case scenario". I always find that ICP testing is most helpful in identifying changes in elemental composition of seawater over time. A single test will show you is something is seriously amiss, like high levels of heavy metals, while a range of tests over time will show you trends going in the wrong direction. Remember that ICP only reports elements, so it won't show if something is wrong with organic compound levels, as those just show as carbon.

 

[BriDroid]

Good question - I'd say right before a water change, as that would be a "worst case scenario". I always find that ICP testing is most helpful in identifying changes in elemental composition of seawater over time. A single test will show you is something is seriously amiss, like high levels of heavy metals, while a range of tests over time will show you trends going in the wrong direction. Remember that ICP only reports elements, so it won't show if something is wrong with organic compound levels, as those just show as carbon.

Thanks Jay! That’s what I was thinking in my mind. I’m coming up on 10 months, and just want to see a snapshot of elements to see where I’m at with my dosing.