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saltyguy51
02/22/2009, 02:42 PM
I have seen on RC that some dose their tanks with Vodka for phosphate problems. Does this really work or is it a myth? Is there scientific " proof "and how much to dose per gallon and can it be done with a fish only aquarium? Is it the actual Vodka that does the trick if it does or is it the alcohol that is the remedy?
ahoyhoy239
02/22/2009, 02:56 PM
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2008-08/nftt/index.php

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=288714


Hope that helps!
DamnPepShrimp
02/22/2009, 03:50 PM
Danorth doses vodka, maybe he'll chime in. I am about to start dosing sugar, I heard its more potent to lower nitrates/phosphates.
saltyguy51
02/22/2009, 04:04 PM
Not much help for a fish only system, but thanks anyway
Recty
02/22/2009, 04:24 PM
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14455364#post14455364 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by saltyguy51
I have seen on RC that some dose their tanks with Vodka for phosphate problems. Does this really work or is it a myth? Is there scientific " proof "and how much to dose per gallon and can it be done with a fish only aquarium? Is it the actual Vodka that does the trick if it does or is it the alcohol that is the remedy? It's ethanol that is needed, vodka seems to be the best source for it.

As far as proof goes, there are some pretty good articles about it out there. It basically increases your bacteria amount which increases how much "loose organics" are being eating in the tank and makes your skimmer produce more skimmate.

You've got to have a good skimmer to benefit from vodka dosing.
DamnPepShrimp
02/22/2009, 05:05 PM
Why wouldn't it be any help in a FO system? I think it'd be great! As recty said, a good skimmer is a MUST!
Stuart60611
02/23/2009, 05:16 PM
I do not see any reason why vodka or sugar dosing would not be beneficial in a FOWLR. I dose vodka in my FOWLR, and it works great at keeping both nitrates and phosphates in line. In fact, I would think it would easier in a FOWLR setting b/c you do not have to worry about any sensitive corals reacting to the dosing which on occassion does happen.
Amoore311
02/23/2009, 08:14 PM
Don't overdose and you're fine. Stick to the dosages recommended in the RC Article linked above.

Be patient and DO NOT overdose in order to rush the process.

It's perfectly safe and it works great at lowering Nitrates and Phosphates if you follow the guidelines.