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View Full Version : Starting Magnesium Levels


zoasguy
02/02/2016, 09:29 AM
My tank has just begun to cycle, but just for an idea of my starting point I tested my calcium, alkalinity and magnesium last night. All was within normal parameters except magnesium. It read less than 30 ppm. Testing kit is Salifert. What is the reasoning behind this? I have not dosed anything, just saltwater from LFS, with curing live rock and DSB.

Thanks!

outssider
02/02/2016, 05:35 PM
30ppm for magnesium is impossible. somehow you're making a testing error.

zoasguy
02/02/2016, 07:24 PM
Tested again. Triple checked everything. No change in color. So I drew up more titrant (Mg-3) and kept titrating. This time a color change was noted and titration was complete. But by this time I am at levels way below 30 ppm.

bertoni
02/02/2016, 07:58 PM
I think you are inverting the sense of the test. If this kit is like the Salifert kits I have, the magnesium level probably is 1470 ppm. The more titrant you add, the higher the magnesium level, in any case.

zoasguy
02/02/2016, 08:06 PM
I see! Thank you so much for the clarification!

bertoni
02/02/2016, 08:47 PM
You're welcome!