Learn and understand the saltwater aquarium water parameters as these are the most often tested for your saltwater fish to thrive and survive!
Beneficial bacteria in the biological filter will convert toxic ammonia into nitrite but this is still toxic.
Regular testing is essential and once you have detected its presence, you should take all the necessary steps to remove it before it become worse.
|
|
See the suggested level for this parameter for your saltwater aquarium on the chart below.
Nitrate is what maintains an aquarium's biological filtration system function and stay in balance. Nitrite is converted into nitrate during this cycling process.
Nitrates are not as toxic as ammonia or nitrites but they are harmful and will stress your fish at high enough levels.
Constant water changes are ideal to remove nitrates in your water. See the suggested level of this parameter for your saltwater aquarium on the chart below.
| Aquarium Parameters |
Suggested Level: Reef Aquarium |
Suggested Level: FOWLR Aquarium |
Average Level: Coral Reefs |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023 - 1.025 | 1.020 - 1.025 | 1.025 |
| Temperature | 72 - 78°F | 72 - 78°F | 82°F |
| pH | 8.1 - 8.4 | 8.1 - 8.4 | 8.0 - 8.5 |
| Alkalinity | 8 - 12 dKH | 8 - 12 dKH | 6 - 8 dKH |
| Ammonia (NH3) | Undetectable | Undetectable | Near Zero |
| Nitrite (NO2) | Undetectable | Undetectable | Near Zero |
| Nitrate - Nitrogen (NO3) |
< 1.0 ppm | < 30 ppm | < 0.25 ppm |
| Phosphate (PO4) | < 0.2 ppm | < 1.0 ppm | < 0.13 ppm |
| Calcium | 350 - 450 ppm | 350 - 450 ppm | 380 - 420 ppm |
| Magnesium | 1250 - 1350 ppm | 1150 - 1350 ppm | 1300 ppm |
| Iodine | 0.06 - 0.10 ppm | 0.04 - 0.10 ppm | 0.06 ppm |
| Strontium | 8 - 14 ppm | 4 - 10 ppm | 8 - 10 ppm |
Complete guide to maintenance and care of your saltwater aquarium
Text and Photo Source: Saltwater Aquarium Online Guide
Loading ...
