Test Kits

[Random Aquarist]

What test kits do I need for a reef tank?

[bertoni]

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

That article covers all the water parameters and lists which ones are critical. A lot depends on what animals you keep and the size of the tank. Many small tanks do well enough with frequent water changes.

I test pH, temperature, salinity, and alkalinity every few weeks. I run a magnesium test every few months. For newer tanks, a nitrate test kit might be useful, as well as phosphate. Ammonia is good to keep on hand for emergencies.

[dendro982]

- Ammonia, nitrites - for cycling tank and emergencies.
- Nitrates and may be phosphates - for checking nutrients accumulation.
- KH (alkalinity) and pH - I need this on a regular basis, but other tanks can be more stable.
- Calcium and may be magnesium. Depends on what salt mix you will be using, will you grow stony corals, or not, and if coraline will not grow - I would check these.

Brands: Salifert is one of the most recommended, Aquarium Pharmaceuticals (AP) are good and cheap (all, but Calcium).