reef water parameters

[saltn00b]

hey all i have switched my FOWLR to be reef ready tank.
i just was curious as to what my ph should be, what temp is best, and do i need to check calcium and magnesium levels before putting in corals or put them in and then check those levels later down the line?

 

[fraggle_a]

Temps generaly sit in the upper 70s.
I would check the levels before you add the corrals.
Check the lighting too. Make sure your getting enough algee growth.

 

[anothrname]

pH is best around 8.2 or 8.3... temp like fraggle said.. upper 70's.. calcium around 400-450, not too sure about magnesium.. but do not supplement anything unless u test for it on a regular basis...

 

[saltn00b]

how to check algae growth?
i have an excess of the red corraline , but not really any of the purple, which i have read the i need and is an indication of the calcium level.
what levels should calcium and magnesium be at?