Stable calcium and alkalinity are crucial for the health and growth of corals and other invertebrates in a reef tank (e.g. Calcium is essential in the production of coral skeletal structures and the growth of other calcifying organisms, while alkalinity favors the pH buffering capacity of the water to prevent dramatic fluctuations of it. The advantage of calcium reactor application lies in the ability to provide continuous and slow introduction of Ca and alkalinity in the water, which can guarantee stable concentrations. In addition, the reactor can be made to expend more or less calcium and alkalinity to meet the requirements of the tank. Another advantage of using a calcium reactor is its ability to reduce the frequency of water changes. By stabilizing calcium and alkalinity levels, the tank’s water chemistry is much more stable, thus lowering owner stress and disease risk for both the inhabitants and the tank itself. However, it is also pointed out that a calcium reactor is to be kept under surveillance and ensured quality. The pH of the reactor should be monitored on a continuous basis since a drop of pH can lead to too fast dissolution of media followed by an excessive amount of calcium and alkalinity in the water [6]. In addition, the media inside the reactor has to be turned over a time window to ensure effective dissolution of calcium carbonate.
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