Reef Tank Test Kit Recommendations Chart
____________________________________
Compiled by Debbie and Stan Hauter
| Test LR=Low Range |
Test Frequency |
Acceptable Range |
| pH | Several times a week, if not daily. |
8.0-8.4 (8.2 is a good mid point.) |
| Alkalinity | Several times a week, if not daily. |
2.5-3.5 meq/l |
| LR Ammonia (NH³ NH³+4) |
Daily during tank cycling; then once every 2-3 weeks. |
0.0 ppm |
| Nitrite (NO²) |
Daily during tank cycling; then once every 2-3 weeks. |
0.0-0.01 ppm |
| LR Nitrate (NO³-) |
Once per week. Note: If test is for Nitrate Nitrogen (N or NO³-N), multiply reading by 4.4 to get Nitrate (NO³) ionic results. |
An immeasurable amount is optimal! Less than 0.25 ppm is strongly recommended. |
| Calcium (Ca) |
Once every 1-2 weeks. |
400-450 ppm Ca++ Hardness 60-80 ppm |
| Carbonate Hardness (KH) |
Once per week. | 5.35-6.45 meq/l, or as 15-18 dKH/ (German °) |
| Phosphate PO4 |
Once per week. | 0.05-0.1 ppm |
| Dissolved Oxygen (O²) |
Once per week. | 7 mg/l saturation or higher. |
| Specific Gravity (Salinity) |
Weekly | 1.023-1.025 |
| Temperature | Daily | 75°-80°F (24°-27°C), with 77°F (25°C) being a good midpoint. |
| Other Optional Reef Tank Tests |
-Iodine/Iodide -Strontium -Silicate -Iron |
Refer to individual test kit directions, and below chart reference resources. |
Note: After the tank cycles we suggest that you run ammonia
and nitrite tests every other day for a week, and anytime
after adding new fish, corals or other marine life to your tank.
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Chart Reference Resources
FINS Reefkeepers FAQS - Testable Parameters Section
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