What do you add?

[pthoma79]

Posted this in the "New Hobbyists" thread, but figured I'd try it here too:
I have these corals:
-heliopora
-colt
-polyps
-ricordea
-leather
-bird's nest
My question is, what (if anything) should I be adding? I have a 34g tank, and do a 5 gal water change every 2-3 weeks. I have heard mixed opinions on what to add. Some say a regular water change is enough, some say calcium, trace elements, etc. Just hoping to get a nice variety of opinions.
Also, a great big THANKS to everyone on these boards! My tank is looking much better, and anyone who asks me where to go for advice for a SW tank, this is the first place I suggest to them...

 

[truperc]

With the corals you are listing, I feel water changes should cover their requirements.
If you were heavy on LPS and/or SPS, you might need to consider additional supplementation.

 

[jackri]

Really the only thing there that takes a bit of calcium is the birds nest but regular water changes are more than enough for that IMO.
Just keep doing what you're doing (if it's looking good)

 

[pthoma79]

Just added the two birdsnest and a montipora digitata (forgot about that one) frags today. We'll see how they do.
Also, lfs said they don't require any special placement or flow. Any ideas? They're at about medium level now.

 

[meowzer]

What is your lighting?

 

[pthoma79]

t5's.

 

[jackri]

Should be just fine.

 

[small triggers]

you should get a test for calcium and see how your range is in between water changes. As far as trace elements go, if you have a stellar skimmer then id add some in the middle of the off time from your water change,, thats about it....some people feel it is better to use every additive on the market, but truely what do the corals need? and im sure you dont want to have a test kit for every single thing out there if you dont feel they need it..