ICP interpretation - should I do something?

Scope · 2026-07-17T07:45:26-0400

Hey,

I'm attaching 2 of my ICP test results. One is from June 1st, the other is the most recent from July 15th. The only thing I'm noticing is that for some reason my molybdenum levels are really low with the recent test showing my tank bottomed out. I'm doing regular, almost 20% water changes every 2 weeks (recently weekly due to my high nutrient levels) so I thought there shouldn't be much of an issue there.

Is there anything else you're noticing I should take care of?

EnterName · 2026-07-17T08:07:53-0400

If you are using aluminum-based phosphate adsorbers you might want to switch to granular ferric oxide (GFO) instead. Water changes will bring aluminum down over time, but it won't cause issues at its current level in my experience. If you are not using said adsorbers you might want to find the aluminum source.

Elements like Iron (Fe) and Manganese (Mn) are often supplemented daily to keep up with their rapid uptake (see for example ATI Daily Traces A & B). You won't be able to keep them within desired levels with water changes.

There are however trace elements that might not be worth supplementing. Randy has made a nice overview:

Thread 'Randy's Elements to Dose'

Jan 21, 2024

In a previous article I discussed my thoughts on trace elements

Randy's thoughts on trace elements

Randy's thoughts on trace elements in reef aquaria.

www.reef2reef.com

This article expands on that discussion by providing specific guidance for all elements one might dose.

First, some explanation.

I have listed many elements as not recommended to dose based on the lack of evidence of a requirement in ANY known organism. These are shown in a lavender color on the table below. I see no rationale to dose these, despite many being at odds with recommendations that permeate the reefing community. In many cases...

I personally just try to keep everything at natural levels so I don't have to worry that something might actually be important and we simply don't know it's exact role yet. If you want to save some money limit the dosing to those elements that are actually essential and cannot be replenished sufficiently by water changes according to Randy's suggestions.