Calcium Dropping

[iamjero]

Ca 2 weeks ago = 420ppm

Ca today at lunch = 380ppm

I added about 30 lbs of live rock that had a good amount of coraline algae right. The first reading is immediatly before I added the rock.

Could the algae on the rock be causing my Ca to drop?

What are some preferred ways to maintain my level at 420ppm?

Any links or info would be great.

Thanks

[ERICN]

yes the coraline uses calcium to grow there are a lot of calcium supplements you can use very simple just add a certain amount of the liquid like once a week to maintain the calcium around 420 or you can buy a calcium reactor that will auto dose your tank and keep it at the proper level's.

[iamjero]

My alkalinity is changing along with the calcium.

I get nervous when my water parameters start changing.

Will maintaining my Ca levels also keep my alk stable?

[Billybeau1]

You will want to add calcium and alk in a balanced fashion. You might try limewater first. Give this a read

What your grandmother never told you about lime
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-01/rhf/index.htm

[Paintbug]

i agree you want to keep the calc and alk balanced. i use a 2 part myself. its often easier for people than limewater/kalk. heres an article on selecting a method to add calc, and alk. http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/feb2003/chem.htm

it really depends on your demands of the tank, but most of us have to add something daily for calc, and alk. some people can get by with just weekly water changes.

[Shiandy]

I use Kent Marine 2 part nice and simple to use, I dose about once per week and seems to keep everything in check.

[iamjero]

Thats what Im talking about Shiandy. I will look into a more complicated method in the future.

Thanks all