Because most all corals and many other invertebrates do not tolerate high concentrations of bad elements that can build up in aquariums, it is important that you test your water for these problematic elements, and then clean up the system to bring them into their acceptable ranges before adding sensitive animals. At the same time here are beneficial trace elements you need to test for, and provide a steady supply of after adding corals to a reef aquarium as well.
Problematic Elements to Test For
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Beneficial Trace Elements to Test For
The fourth step in converting a saltwater fish-only or a fish-only with live rock aquarium into a reef tank system is to evaluate the movement of the water in your aquarium. This is important because corals and other sessile (stationary) invertebrates require good circulation of the aquarium water to flush waste away from the animals, and bring oxygen and food "to" them.
If the circulation of the water in your aquarium is poor, here's what you can do to improve it:
