Testing for copper

[chuckularone]

I have a 75 gallon tank I'd like to set up at some point for salt water fish. I'd like to test it for copper first though (yes, it was once used for fresh water fish) I'm going to partially fill it with water (Maybe 15 gallons) and then have the water tested. How long should I let it sit before testing it?
Thanks,
-Chuck

 

[alexsd]

Chuck
If you are just going to set up a fish only tank, dont worry about the copper. but if your going to start a reef it will be just safer if you just got a new tank.

 

[karajay]

I would guess about 24-48 hrs. max and you should get a reading (if you have copper). You could just peel out the old silicone and reseal it.

 

[maverick005]

are you positive that all you have to do is reseal it? and we are talking about anything over 0 reading on copper correct?

 

[chuckularone]

^

 

[beaslbob]

Originally posted by chuckularone
I have a 75 gallon tank I'd like to set up at some point for salt water fish. I'd like to test it for copper first though (yes, it was once used for fresh water fish) I'm going to partially fill it with water (Maybe 15 gallons) and then have the water tested. How long should I let it sit before testing it?
Thanks,
-Chuck
Bottom line is there is no reason to test for copper. By first establishing a thriving plant growth you know that copper is not a concern.

 

[fender]

Resealing is the easiest, cheapest method outside of buying a new tank and will cost less than spending months wondering what your copper levels are and if the plants (that you may not even like the look of) are pulling it all out.
Imagine a year from now spending a bunch of money on live rock, a clean up crew, and some oranmental shrimp, only to have things start dying. You can't figure out why. You are frustrated. Angry and quickly running out of money. Someone suggests testing for copper. Well you never put any in...but what the heck, everything else has failed. So you test....WOW lethal levels in your tank.....leached from the seals......accumulating over time......killing everything but the fish in your tank.
Resealing is cheap insurance.
IMHO
--Edited by fender --Didn't mean to come off too strong Bob. Sorry, I see your view but respectfully disagree with it.

 

[beaslbob]

I am sorry you misinterputed my post. I am not advocating starting a tank or adding copper to an existing setup, reef or otherwise. And yes I know there are various other systems to remove copper.
What I posted and meant was to first establish a thriving plant growth to remove the copper and other toxins. plant life filters copper ions as well as numerous heavy ions. With a system that has been established, drained, flushed out, and then has established a thriving plant life, you are assured no excessive copper remains in the system.
As I said I am sorry for any misunderstanding.