alkalinity

Question
QUESTION: I have Xenia soft coral.  It has been closed up for a couple of days.  The rest of the tank seems to be doing well.  From what I have researched, alkalinity may be a factor.  What do you think. How do I test?  I added iodide and calcium this morning.  Everything test okay except the nitrate level is 20

ANSWER: Hey Jill

is your PH around 8.0-8.2? if not, i would try to get it up to that area. If your PH is good, wait a few days with the xenia. Some corals will close up for a while, to digest food or to even have a rest. My toadstool coral closed for 2 weeks, and after just sprouted out again, i think this is your case.

To test your alkalinity, get a saltwater test kit, preferably a liquid test kit (more reliable). If you have any follow up questions, feel free to ask

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Ph is around 8.4-8.8

Answer
You might want to bump it down a bit, ideally you want 8.0-8.2

The PH probably isnt to blame though, i still have a feeling he is taking a rest. If he starts "melting" (shedding alot and looking soggy and droopy), its definitely not taking a rest, its dying from something.