Phosophorus Dosing Question

[ConnorA]

I received some ICP results that said my phosphorus might be limited. I do not run GFO and I feel like my refugium has been struggling slightly also recently. My nitrates have been steady between 4-6 ppm, but it seems like phosphorus could be a limiting factor. Should I start dosing Phosphorus directly or feed more? Also, if I raise phosphorus levels, will the refugium be able to remove the remaining nitrates more effectively?

 

[glb]

How old is your tank? Did you start with live or dry rock? I’ve had similar issues with my tank and have regretted dosing po4. Tell us more about your setup so we can help!

 

[ConnorA]

Tank is a year and a half old, all started as dry rock originally. 50% of the rock came from my previous tank, when I upgraded which was about 2 years old. I haven't ever had issues with hair algae

 

[Potatohead]

I would, for sure. Dose about .05 per day to start and see what happens.

 

[ConnorA]

Have you dosed any specific products?

 

[Potatohead]

Have you dosed any specific products?

I'm dying on this hill - Phosphate is more important than alkalinity

Honestly I’m a strong believer if your tank looks good let it ride regardless of the numbers. If you chase numbers you can find yourself dosing this and that to meet the “recommended levels” and run into other problems. I test once a week and yes sometimes I find things out of the relative norm...

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