Tests?

[mysticgal22]

I am a newbie to all this fish stuff. And Ifind it overwleming at times. Im not sure what all I need to be testing the water for, the lady that gave me the set up delivered and left...hmm. Well I test the ph, the salt level, and nitrates. Anything else I should be testing for ? I dont want to lose any of my fish, coral or lr. thanks

 

[col]

What exactly is in your tank?
You will definitley need Ammonia and NitRITRe test kits

 

[mysticgal22]

The set up has been going for about 2 years. Im just taking it over. I have one clown, a few snails, 2 queen conches, 2 bennies, lr and coral. I do have a professional test kit, but what ranges should they be in? thanks

 

[daniel411]

You might want to consider investing in a good book covering the basics of saltwater aquariums such as Conscientious Marine Aquarist by Fenner or Natural Reef Aquariums by Tulluck. Both excellent books and sold on this site in the dry goods section.

 

[beaslbob]

I would test at least nitrItes. That will give you a sign if a new cycle has started. If nitrItes do bump up I would recommend not feeding the fish until they come down.

 

[mysticgal22]

So over feeding my fish will bring the nitrates up? I checked everything and it looks good.