Trace Minerals

[Freenow54]

I know this has been done to death but could not find a definitive answer. I just started in with adding coral. Started with easy to raise needing low / medium light/ and low to / medium flow. So I read about trace elements in some of the discussions. I bought Tropic Marin A-, and K+. I followed the instructions and in my case stayed a little conservative 90 Gallon main display, and a 40 gallon sump which I counted as 20 Gallons and added 5ml of each to my set up

My question is if I don't take tests can i set a rough schedule when to add? I do weekly water changes, and was thinking half way through each week. Should I rethink and test or can I continue with a rough schedule if so what would be good?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Following TM's guidelines for dosing is unlikely, IMO, to lead to significant issues and is a fine plan. If it is heavily stocked, go with their higher recommendation.

https://www.tropic-marin-smartinfo.com/k-elements?lang=en
Add 1 ml of trace elements (each solution) to each 100 l of aquarium water daily. The trace element solution must not come into direct contact with the animals.
The dose may be doubled if the corals consume large quantities of trace elements (maximum dosage).

 

[Troylee]

I’d say you wouldn’t need any trace element dosing with a light coral load and water changes.. the water changes alone should be enough if you keep up with them. I’ve went months without a water change and it dosing any elements with a heavily stocked tank and had zero issues! I don’t do icp tests I think it’s a waste of money myself but that’s just me! Any time you add food or nori etc you’re adding trace elements