nutrients

[Randy1]

How does silicates get into our tanks? Does anyone out there spend time testing for it? If we find we have it how do you remove and prevent it for returning?
Thanks

[pjf]

The silica in my aquarium comes from my tap water and results in diatom blooms. I have no RO/DI system to filter the silica. Instead, I have a Kold Ster-il unit that does not filter silica. I hope to control the diatom blooms by controlling phosphate. Here's an article about silica: http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/jan2003/feature.htm.

[Randy1]

Sounds like really nothing to worry about. I run RO|DI and check it regularly for tds and always maintain a 0 reading. I guess we should focus on nitrates and phosphates.

[Billybeau1]

Yes Randy. Good to focus on those.

For experience, give this a read

Silica in the Reef Tank
http://advancedaquarist.com/issues/jan2003/feature.htm