Welcome to the fascinating world of reef tank keeping. We discuss the delicate balance of water parameters and the keys to success. Water quality is the foundation of a successful reef tank. We should always strive to maintain optimal conditions in our reef tanks. Parameters are crucial for the well-being of all our livestock, especially corals. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor and maintain these parameters to ensure the best possible environment for our reef ecosystem.
Reef Water Quality Management
Filtration
filtration is crucial when it comes to water quality. There are many types of filters on the market. We use and recommend a sump filter. If you combine this type of filter with a good protein skimmer ensures optimal water conditions. We have listed for you the three types of filtrations that should be used for optimal water quality.
Mechanical Filtration
Mechanical filtration is one of the most important aspects of a saltwater aquarium. This type of filtration can have a huge effect on water quality and it’s the first line of defense for nutrient control. This is done by using filter socks and or sponges. They trap waste, debris, and extra uneaten food particles before they break down and release nutrients into your water. It also makes all other aspects of nutrient control much more effective. For this reason, mechanical filtration must be maintained properly. We need to change out used-up filter socks and sponges.
A lot of hobbyists are now using filter rollers because the used filters get rolled away. Another important device and highly recommended, is a Protein Skimmer. It will remove organic waste and increase oxygen levels. It works by whisking tank water combined with air to create a thick foam that removes dissolved organics. This is then collected in a skimmer cup and turns into dark wastewater. This cup should be emptied and cleaned often as needed.
Biological Filtration
Biofiltration uses media or devices that enhance the growth and activity of nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria that help reduce nitrates. This is why we recommend live rock and sand because they provide surfaces and areas for the bacteria to colonize. A good example and highly recommended, especially with tanks with big bio-loads is a bioreactor. A bioreactor uses bio-balls that are slowly being tumbled within a reactor to help colonize these beneficial bacteria. They are a very reef-safe way of reducing nitrates. Another device is a refugium that can be built into your sump, there is also a hang-on back option. This device grows Chaeto macro algae and also helps reduce available nutrients that cause nuisance algae in your display.
Chemical Filtration
Chemical filtration is not used as often as mechanical or biological filtration. However, can be effective by using media or resins that bind or remove specific substances from the water. For example, activated carbon can remove organic compounds and polish the water to look crystal clear. Carbon should be replaced as needed because when the pores are filled the carbon is no longer effective. At this point, clogged carbon will become a biological filter. Another media is granular ferric oxide (GFO) is used to control phosphate levels in your saltwater aquarium. Left unchecked, excessive phosphate can lead to algae growth and undesirable microbial imbalances.
Once again, there are many more options in the market these days. Please consider what you are putting in your water. Some products can do more harm than good. We are only mentioning the ones we have used and that we recommend. If you want to use other products, we recommend that you do some research before buying and using them. We prefer to stick with reef-safe products only to ensure the well-being of our corals.
Water Changes
in our opinion, are an excellent way to maintain water quality. There is nothing like a good old-fashioned 10% water change performed weekly or bi-weekly. This is necessary to help remove and dilute the pollutants that build up in your aquarium water. They also replenish some of the minerals and trace elements that get depleted from saltwater which are crucial for coral health. Water changes will drastically change your success rate in this hobby. Neglecting this, especially in the first year will inhibit your success rate. The new saltwater mixing should be done a day or so before the scheduled water change. You should also use a heater in your new saltwater mixing to match your tank temperature. This is crucial, especially in smaller nano tanks. As mentioned before, water temperature should be as stable as possible.
Reef Parameters
Temperature
Temperature is a parameter that is essential for success. It affects the metabolism, respiration, and immune system of aquatic organisms. We keep 2 heaters in our system just in case one goes out. And we also installed a chiller. We run both devices with the Ink Bird temperature controller. This controller comes with a probe that monitors your water temperature 24/7. An ideal temperature for most reef tanks is between 76°F to 78°F for most reef tanks. We run our reef at 80°F.
Salinity
Salinity levels should be maintained between 1.024 to 1.026 to mimic natural conditions with our reef tank to check these parameters we use the refractometer to measure the salinity. Always mix your saltwater the night before, we use red sea salt mix. Make sure to use a pump for proper mixing also use a heater to bring the temperature up to match your tank temperature. Remember it’s all about stability and adding new saltwater should not be any different. The water should be properly mixed and at the right temperature.
PH Balance
PH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the water is. It will affect the availability of nutrients solubility of minerals and the health of coral skeletons. This is why this parameter should be maintained properly we use the Salifert test kit to measure the PH levels. PH levels should be 7.8 to 8.4 to ensure the right chemical environment for coral growth and overall tank health. A probe can be used to monitor this parameter. We need to keep it as stable as possible and avoid large fluctuations, as always stability is key.
Nutrients/Nitrates & Phosphates
NNP is a very important parameter for a reef tank. They must be balanced correctly which is crucial. You will come across hobbyists who truly believe nitrate levels should be at zero. This could NOT be further from the truth. All corals need nutrients for their survival and for them to thrive. You will do two things if you bottom out your nitrates, you will starve your corals and will end up with Dinoflagellates (AKA Dinos). At the same time, elevated nitrates can lead to nuisance algae and bacterial imbalances and will inhibit coral growth and health.
Regarding Nitrates, we also need to consider the number of fish because they are part of the bio-load. Another huge contributor is overfeeding. A good level for Nitrates is between 5 to 10 PPM. Phosphates should also be kept low between .025 to 1.0. We will do more in-depth videos on nutrients and how to control and balance them.
Alkalinity
levels should be maintained as stable as possible. You will need to test regularly and use buffers or additives to adjust as needed. Remember to keep both alkalinity and calcium levels in balance as they are interrelated. A good range is 8 to 11 dkH to support coral growth and prevent pH fluctuations. Alkalinity is a very important parameter that should be checked weekly.
Calcium
to maintain a stable calcium level, you need to test your water regularly and use supplements or additives to replenish it if necessary. You should avoid adding too much calcium at once as it can cause precipitation and cause more harm than good. Remember, it’s about having patience and taking baby steps. Calcium should be kept between 400 to 450 PPM to support coral skeleton formation. It can be a bit higher in SPS-dominated tanks. This parameter should also be checked weekly to ensure stability.
Magnesium
another vital parameter for coral growth and health. Magnesium affects the solubility and availability of calcium and alkalinity. Keep in mind that magnesium is continually being consumed. Healthy-growing corals constantly use magnesium for their calcification. You need to test regularly and use supplements or additives to replenish it when necessary. Also, be careful not to add too much at once as it can cause precipitation and cause more harm than good. Magnesium levels should always be maintained between 1350 to 1400 PPM to promote coral health and prevent precipitation issues. This parameter should also be checked weekly to ensure it’s being maintained at optimal levels.
All the above parameters should be maintained to create an environment conducive to coral growth and it involves attention to detail. Ensuring parameter levels are maintained requires weekly testing. A lot of people might call this number chasing. We say call it what you want but, testing regularly ensures a thriving healthy reef tank. Not to test regularly is like driving your car with your eyes closed. We recommend buying quality test kits, but they do not have to be expensive. We recommend Salifert for most parameters and Nyos for nutrients.
Monitoring Reef Tank Parameters
Problem Prevention
when you monitor your reef tank parameters identifying and handling an issue before it becomes a problem and causes detrimental damage to your aquarium. Similar to how we use chillers and heaters for specific temperature fluctuations in the weather.
Help Corals Grow
Keeping your parameters in check is vital to all growing organisms within your reef tank. Corals require a specific amount of nutrient, light, and good water quality. Giving your coral the best conditions possible will invigorate your corals to thrive.
Handle Issues
If your reef tank is showing signs of struggle understanding the correct levels for your parameters will help isolate the issue at hand. A few reasons corals may not grow is because the temperature, salinity, or Ph levels are to low water testing regularly will help maintain these problems.
Stay Up to Date
there is always new products and technology coming out in the market. Keeping an eye out for the latest and greatest that can help or make your job of maintenance easier is always welcome just make sure they are relatively easy to use and also cost effective as well.
Aquarium Lighting Requirements
Lighting: must be provided adequately with the right spectrums to support photosynthesis, the process by which corals produce food and oxygen. The ideal lights for a reef tank depend on the type and depth of the corals. Generally, it should be bright enough to penetrate the water column and reach corals. It should also have a full spectrum to mimic natural sunlight and enhance coral colors. And adjustable to simulate sunrise and sunset.
To achieve the optimal lighting, we need a suitable light fixture. We should also consider the size, shape, and layout of our tank. And keep in mind that acclimation of coral to new lighting should always be gradual. adjusting intensity and duration based on the types of corals. You should consider getting a good quality light source that provides the right spectrums. We recommend the top 3 LED lights, which are Radion, AI Prime, or Kessil.
Conclusion
As we can see, mastering a reef tank and its parameters is an ongoing process that requires dedication and attention to detail. Regular monitoring, testing, and adjustments will contribute to the long-term success of your reef system. By understanding and maintaining these parameters you will create a beautiful healthy and thriving reef ecosystem. And please never forget that patience is key in this hobby. Reefing is all about consistency and taking baby steps. And once you have a healthy thriving reef you will see that it’s all worth it.
With our reef system, we have reached a point where we must frag our corals because of so much growth. Believe me, this is the only hobby that pays you back in the sales of coral frags. If you watch your parameters closely by testing weekly and perform regular water changes your Aquarium will be in top condition allowing it to not only survive but thrive as well. By learning about these routines, you will be able to catch problems before they happen or grow your corals to large sizes and sell fragments like we do. You can learn more about trouble shooting and the latest products on the reef keeping market through our other articles on our articles page up at the top of the page select the tab (article).