Calcium:
Calcium is the most critical component of the triad, serving as a substrate for the skeletal systems of corals and invertebrates. Calcium also plays a key role in the development of other organisms in the tank, including snails, clams, and crustaceans.es.
Measuring calcium concentrations in your fish tank is simple, where a calcium test system is used. These kits usually involve the addition of a reagent to a water sample from your tank and of the determination of its calcium concentration by means of a colour chart or a digital meter.
It’s important to test for calcium levels regularly, as they can fluctuate based on factors such as evaporation, water changes, and biological activity in the tank. The optimal calcium level for a reef aquarium is usually in the range of 400-450 ppm.
Magnesium:
Magnesium is another key component of the triad, since it contributes to the maintenance of correct calcium/alkalinity homeostasis in the tank and/or the appropriate functioning of the cheate system. Magnesium is also crucial for the survival and growth of corals and other invertebrates, and it is also used to prevent their undesirable growth (phototrophic) algae.The optimal magnesium value for a reef aquarium is usually between 1200-1350 ppm. As with calcium, magnesium concentrations may vary depending on many factors, and thus they should be measured regularly.
Carbonate Hardness (KH):
Carbonate hardness or alkalinity is the third main factor in the triad (triad). KH contributes to the maintenance of a steady pH in the aquarium, which is critical to the survival of corals and other invertebrates. KH is further used to ensure sufficient calcium and magnesium also in the tank.The target basic pH level of an aquarium set-up for coral is usually up to 8-11 dKH. It’s essential to keep your alkalinity levels stable as they periodically change can stress your corals and cause bleaching or other health problems.
Restoration of the triad in your reef tank is a key factor in the health and development of corals and other animals.
It is possible to maintain the triad with:
Calcium Reactor:
A calcium reactor is a system that keeps the calcium, magnesium and trace elements all at an optimal level in a reef aquarium system. It consists of a tank with calcium carbonate media (such as crushed v. a. coral or aragonite), gradually degraded by carbon dioxide (CO2). CO2 is introduced to the reactor chamber either from a CO2 cylinder or from a CO2 regulator connected to a CO2 tank.
When CO2 dissolves calcium carbonate media it releases Ca and some other elements to water. Dissolved calcium and other elements are then utilized by the corals and other invertebrates in the aquarium. The calcium reactor is normally integrated with the aquarium’s central water circulation system so that the dissolved components are evenly distributed in the aquarium.
The calcium reactor is a common technique for stablising the calcium and other elemental levels as it continuously releases dissolving elements into the aquarium. But, it is necessary for careful control of the pH and CO2 concentration, and the replacement of the calcium carbonate media must be also done periodically.
Balling Method:
The Balling technique, or Three-Part Technique, is a technique for keeping calcium, magnesium, and alkalinity (KH) in level in a reef aquarium. It consists in the dilution of three distinct solutions with the previous variables determined (i.e., calcium, magnesium, KH) added to the aquarium water.
The three solutions are usually prepared and mixed on their own, with a certain recipe, and then added to the aquarium water either by means of an automated dosing pump or manually. Dosages should be calculated according to the size of the aquarium and to the desired concentrations of each element.The Balling technique is widely used as it provides precise control of the concentration of each element in the aquarium.
The calcium reactor and the Balling method are efficient means for keeping triad healthy in an aquarium reef. But, they need to be monitored and serviced constantly, in order to maintain consistent high and low levels that are appropriate for the inhabitants of the aquarium.
Calcium, magnesium, and carbonate hardness contribute together to a suitable overall environment for the development of these organisms. Regular monitoring and maintenance of these elements is crucial.
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