Nitrate Phosphate

[snowlynx]

Please clarify. I was reading some posts, nitrates to phosphate 16:1

so if you keep nitrates down, why is there need to use media to reduce phosphates or use of phosphate reactor?

I am using an aqua clear 70 with sponge on bottom, 2 layers of seachem
matrix and the walmart poly fill. I plan to remove the sponge and replace
with more seachem matrix and purigen.

I am using a nano skimmer in my 17 gallon. My readings have been 0
every few days, tank has cycled and running one month now.

started to see small spots of cyano so now looking into the nitrate/phosphate
issues.

I use API tests kits for all parameters

[mcgyvr]

Please clarify. I was reading some posts, nitrates to phosphate 16:1

so if you keep nitrates down, why is there need to use media to reduce phosphates or use of phosphate reactor?



There is an "optional" need to run a phosphate reactor if you have a phosphate issue.. Thats independent of nitrate levels..
Typically thats because you overfeed as foods are high in phosphates on average..
Its 7.2:1 in mass.. 16:1 is atoms.. and there is also a carbon portion to it 106:16:1 (C:N:P)

And you have a new tank.. What you are seeing is normal part of that.. ugly stage #3 to be specific..

Keep both nitrates and phosphates down

I personally have NEVER ran a phosphate reactor ever in my reefing life and likely never will..

I also don't believe people know the exact reason for cyano either.. It seems to be because of excessive something.. But I've had cyano with both nitrates and phosphates being undetectable.. I usually get a little bit each year..
I normally just turn lights off for 3 days and thats the end of it..