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CALCIUM... An important additive...
Calcium and alkalinity are two of the most talked about ions in saltwater aquarium chemistry. In this article we will take a look at why calcium is so crucial, the role it plays in our aquariums, how to maintain it, and how to fix it!
Calcium is critical in the formation of skeletal structure of corals and the growth of shells in many marine organisms. Coralline algae, live rock, and aragonite substrate are all made up of, and consume, in varying degrees, the calcium within your aquarium's water. Since we are enclosing vast amounts of marine life within the walls of our aquariums, and don't have an ocean's worth of water, calcium is an ion that is depleted very rapidly, and is a never ending process to maintain!
The process by which calcium is used in seawater is best described and displayed within our aquariums. Take note of warm objects within our aquariums, such as pump impellers and the glass on some heaters. Over time you may notice a build up of a solid white substance on those objects. Since the calcium ions are attracted to heat, the result is a precipitation of calcium carbonate onto the warm surfaces of the aquarium, which results in this residue.
Coral skeletons use vast amounts of calcium. Their skeletons are utilized to extract calcium which is used in many medicinal calcium supplements found on pharmacy shelves.
The demand for calcium in your aquarium will largely depend on what types of animals you wish to keep, and will increase as you continue to introduce calcium dependent livestock. Stony corals and clams, being the largest consumers, require frequent monitoring and supplementation of calcium into your aquarium. As they grow, so does their calcium consumption.
The average calcium level of coral reefs around the world is approximately 410ppm. Many reefers choose to keep their calcium in the proximity of 400-450pmm at a specific gravity of 1.025.
Can I actually maintain the calcium in my aquarium?
Maintaining calcium in your aquarium is a relatively simple task. By taking a measurement (using an appropriate calcium test kit) of your tanks calcium over a period of a few days, you get a firm understanding of what your tanks calcium demand really is. Once you have tracked how much calcium you are using, it is simply a matter of selecting the appropriate additive or buffer to counter act the imbalance. Keeping stable calcium, without fluctuations, creates an environment your corals and inverts will thrive in.
Are there any common indicators that I have low calcium?
While it is our recommendation that you test the amount of calcium in your aquarium's water regularly (with a good test kit), there are subtle indicators that your calcium may be low.
- Calcium and Alkalinity are often used up in proportionate ratios. Therefore if you test your aquarium's calcium and discover it is low, then most likely your alkalinity is low as well (and vice versa).
- Lack of coralline algae and slow coral growth are also common indicators that calcium is deficient.
In summary, calcium is as important to your reef tank, as air is to you! Monitor it regularly and have the appropriate additives on hand to assist you maintaining your aquarium's stability.
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