When to start Ca, Mg, Sr, and alkalinity?

newclean · 06/11/2008, 02:11 PM

I started a new 75 gal with store bought premixed RO w/IO salt. New live rock was added yesterday, and judging by the smell of the water, the cycle has begun.

I will be moving the contents of my 30 gal to the new 75 (SPS frags).

Should I attempt to bring the Ca, Mg, Sr, and alk up to snuff or do I need to wait for the nitrogen cycle to run its course first?

BTW I was thinking that adjusting alk right now might cut down on some of the initial blooms of nuisance algae.

Thanks,
Carson

Randy Holmes-Farley · 06/11/2008, 02:13 PM

There is no need to wait, but many people do a significant water change after the cycle, so it may be wasted. I do not think the alkalinity will impact algae growth.

06/11/2008, 02:11 PM	#1
newclean Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Indianapolis Posts: 197	When to start Ca, Mg, Sr, and alkalinity? I started a new 75 gal with store bought premixed RO w/IO salt. New live rock was added yesterday, and judging by the smell of the water, the cycle has begun. I will be moving the contents of my 30 gal to the new 75 (SPS frags). Should I attempt to bring the Ca, Mg, Sr, and alk up to snuff or do I need to wait for the nitrogen cycle to run its course first? BTW I was thinking that adjusting alk right now might cut down on some of the initial blooms of nuisance algae. Thanks, Carson __________________ We were taught to be universally resourceful by the water, the sun, and the stardust. Current Tank Info: 75 gal AGA sps, 50/25 gal diy acrylic sump, 17 gal diy acrylic fuge

06/11/2008, 02:13 PM	#2
Randy Holmes-Farley Reef Chemist Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Arlington, Massachusetts Posts: 86,233	There is no need to wait, but many people do a significant water change after the cycle, so it may be wasted. I do not think the alkalinity will impact algae growth. __________________ Randy Holmes-Farley Current Tank Info: 120 mixed reef