Magnesium, newbie...little help

[lowcountry1]

ok, newbie...I bought Kh, PH, CA, NO3 test kits but not magnesium...I have a 12 gal aquapod and once I feel comfortable with the chemistry aspect of the aguarium I would like to add coral. Why do I need magnesium?

[lowcountry1]

I just realized that I dont have an Alkaline test either. How critical is this test? My local store didnt recommend this one...

[bertoni]

Alkalinity is critical, since it's consumed along with calcium to produce coral skeletons. Magnesium is less likely to be a problem, but if it drops too low, that can cause calcium carbonate precipitation. I test Mg every couple of months.

This article covers all the water parameters:

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-05/rhf/index.php

[lowcountry1]

perfect, thank you sir! I saved that article to my fav's and will be reverting back to it from time to time I am sure. I am really enjoying this hobby. How long have you been involved with Martial Arts? My 4 year old is taking karate classes 1 day a week here in SC.

[bertoni]

I think it's about 18 years now.

[lowcountry1]

Nice, sounds like it has been good to you to stay in it that long. Our son loves it. Thanks for the advice.

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

How long have you been involved with Martial Arts?


I think it's about 18 years now.

Can you break boards with your head? :D

[bertoni]

Yes, and I frag corals by glaring at them. :)