Reef water chemistry

[Ubergroover]

I have kept marine tanks for years, but never a reef tank. So I have the frame work put together, 75g 20g sump w/skimmer, canister filter plumbed out of that, return to tank. I monitor the nitrogen cycle started a database so I see charted trends. PH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, salinity. Now I need to understand what reef specific parameters I need to monitor. I have no fish or corals, as I need to understand what they need. So , since this site is filled with probably thousands of people way more knowledgeable than me, what are the parameters I need to control to have a successful reef tank?

 

[AllSignsPointToFish]

Depending on the coral selection and how you run the alkalinity, the nitrates should be in the range of 0-20ppm.

Phosphates <0.04 ppm
Calcium 425-450 ppm
dKH 8-12
Magnesium 1350-1450 ppm
Temperature 76-80°F
Salinity 1.023-1.026
pH 8-8.4

Some will vary a small amount, but these are generally accepted parameters.

If you decide to test for iodine, iron, and potassium, Red Sea recommends:
Iodine 0.06 ppm
Potassium 300-400 ppm
Iron 0.15 ppm

Hope this helps!

 

[lewis.maryann08]

My dkh is 11*2 is it to high and if so how do I lower it?

 

[XNavyDiver]

My dkh is 11*2 is it to high and if so how do I lower it?

I would use a salt mix that mixes to the dKh that is in line to where you want it. If your using a mix that is high in alk but don't have the demand, it will remain high. Water changes with a lower dKh salt will lower your dKh. Or, if you're dosing alk, just adjust your dose downward.