Reef Chemicals

Question
What chemicals do I need to have for a reef tank?

Answer
Hello Manolio,

I believe that unless you have an overly stocked aquarium or some type of coral farm, that you dont really need any chemicals.

That is the goal. If you do regular water changes, (every two weeks), then you are supplying all the trace elements your aquarium needs

Now, if and when things go wrong, yo might need some things.  I would always have vinegar and baking soda around to help in case of pH problems.  Now, this is after you now what is going on and are in fear of problems, above 8.6  or below 7.5

First thing i would check is the pHtest kit or pH meter.

I might have some ofthe following if i was starting off as a newbie...  pHup  and pH down... these are safer to use then the vinegar and baking soda.

I have only heard of one pH problem and that was due to a malfunctioning calcium reactor.


I would strong urge you to read REEFKEEPING magazine and check out the chemistry section.

http://reefkeeping.com/

Also i would suggest reading up on the TWO PART SOLUTIONS in that magazine.  This article explains the purposes of Calcium and Alkalinity in aquariums.



OTher then that, you might need some algae fix or Melafix...

But, you absolutely dont need the zooplanktons and other 'coral foods'



good luck and please let me know what you end up doing.


bill