Calcium Test Kits ?

[FrankB1]

Anything better out there than Salifert? Say easier endpoint color change etc. I have been adding ESV 2 part and keep getting readings of 350ppm Ca.

[usmcsgt]

Salifert is as good as it gets unless you get a electronic one but I use salifert, Maybe you need to bump your dose up some. What size tank and how many ML are you dosing?

[Hop]

Where is you mag and alk at? The calcium levels won't increase if you don't have these in check!

Read this (http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/nov2002/chem.htm) and report back;)

[affan]

Most two-part supplements maintain Ca and dKH levels. Their primary function isn't to increase your levels. Look into other products such as Turbo Calcium and the likes to increase your calcium. Once you've reached a desired number, dose away with a two part.

[SDguy]

Actually, I have had very good success raising Ca/alk levels with two part systems IF both were low to begin with. If only Ca is low, then yes, you can use something like turbo calcium. If your Mg is low, you will never get your Ca level up IME. Also, kalk is good for maintaining levels, not raising, IME.

hth

[FrankB1]

Thanks for recommendations.

This is a new 20 gal tank with only sand and 5# rubble rock in the fuge. No live rock has been added yet. I did get a cycle with the 5# rubble but ammonia and nitrite are now 0, salinity is 1.026 and pH is 8.2.

The water in the tank is Catalina Real Ocean water. Is this water inherrently low in Ca?

I'm getting approx 350-360ppm Ca using Salifert test.