Test kits

[joejoe]

I am planning on starting a 38 gallon reef tank with 3 or 4 fish in it. I was wondering what tests chemicals, besides alk/ph/nitrate/nitrite I would need for the tank. I came across a cycle package that had these four testers, but what else would I need? I was also told by someone about the Salifert pro package and it tests for basically everything and some ($200). Would I need that or should I just purchase the cycle kit along with suggestions I get from the board? Thanks in advance everyone!!

 

[nm reef]

Most of the readily available and less expensive test kits are decent enough to use for a cycling system(insure they have not expired)...several brands offer marine kits that test for ammonia/nitrite/nitrate/ph. Those are the basics for setting up/cycling/establishing a marine system. As you progress into the hobby then you may want to have more accurate tests and you may want to consider testing alkalinity/calcium/magnesium/phosphates...at that point I'd strongly urge you to consider purchasing Salifert tests...they are much more reliable and they offer an assortment of tests.
But for a new system the package kits will be a good starting point. Best of luck with your new aquarium...
Keep us posted as it progresses and don't hesitate to ask questions along the way.
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