trace elements

[keith gray]

I have had a fowlr tank for a few years, but my teenage son(my partner in this hobby) has talked me into trying a few corals. I have about 4 softies in a 65 gal and they seem to be doing well. I was not told at the LFS about feeding them anything, they said the "stuff" in the water would take care of their needs. Although they are doing well so far, I have read about adding things like Strontium or Iodone, etc. Is this necessary with softies ? Will affect any other water measurments such as nitrates, etc ?
help with knowledge !!

 

[spanko]

These trace elements are provided via the new salt water you put in at water change. With those as the only coral in your tank I would not worry about those additions as long as you are doing regular water changes.

 

[keith gray]

thanks I will continue to monitor. I know that sounds like a dumb question but I always double check stuff I hear
thanks again

 

[spanko]

If you want to spend the money there are Iodine and Strontium test kits out there. If you ever do feel that you have to dose, I suggest testing first to make sure.

 

[keith gray]

I may test to see. The water I use for water changes is Ro and comes from a water testing company owned by a relative. It is supposedly stripped of everything. I usually tap off with a gallon of distilled water from the grocery store. Will either of these give me trace elements ?

 

[bang guy]

You will want to make use of Calcium and Alkalinity tests on a regular basis. There is not need, in my opinion, for Strontium or Iodine supplements but I agree with Spanko 100% that if you're going to dose them you really need to test current levels.

 

[bang guy]

Originally Posted by Keith Gray
http:///forum/post/3154688
I may test to see. The water I use for water changes is Ro and comes from a water testing company owned by a relative. It is supposedly stripped of everything. I usually tap off with a gallon of distilled water from the grocery store. Will either of these give me trace elements ?
No.
But the saltmix will replenish trace elements when you do water changes but you must test to know for sure.

 

[spanko]

Yup what he said!!!!!