First Corals

[shoreliner11]

I just got my new 130w pc lighting fixture for my 20gal. I was thinking of starting out with some softies but I am unsure what to choose. I like the toadstool mushroom leather and the kenya tree coral, does anyone approve/dispprove of either of these. Also, can I get away with a little lower calcium measurements with these? Thanks.

 

[krishj39]

Both of those corals will do very well in that tank. You can keep your calcium level lower and those corals won't mind, but I don't know why you would want to keep a lower level.

 

[shoreliner11]

The only reason why is because I am still getting the hang of keeping my Ca levels up. I am taking it slow though(I'd rather rase slowly and stable than skyrocket it too high). They are about at 375 right now.

 

[bang guy]

Both of those corals consume a LOT of Calcium and will need you to maintain Calcium and ALK lavels. They will use a surprisingly high quantity of Calcium so it will be a good time to learn how to chart the consumption rate.

 

[shoreliner11]

Thanks bang. I'll just wait to get them until I get my calcium levels up and stable.

 

[ty_05_f]

I started with green star polyps and man do they grow fast!

 

[bang guy]

Test Calcium and Alkalinity once a week. If it goes down you need to dose more. If it goes up you need to dose less.

 

[bang guy]

There's no way to predict the growth rate until you see it. Corals grow at different rates depending on the environment.

 

[bosco0633]

I love colt corals. I think that they are beautiful. I just have trouble keeping them alive. Thanks for the advice.