Inquiry Regarding Phosphate and Nitrate Levels in Aquarium Reefs: Is a New Nutrient Strategy Able to Settle the Dispute? | 52SE (Revised)
In the world of saltwater aquariums, maintaining a healthy balance of nutrients is crucial for the growth of corals and the prevention of algae blooms. However, the journey to this balance has not always been straightforward.
Pollution, defined as a substance that has harmful or poisonous effects when absorbed, respired, or ingested, has long been a concern in reef aquariums. The daily addition of fish and coral food is the biggest source of pollution, leading many to adopt an extreme approach to nutrient management.
Historically, the mantra was almost universally 'the lower, the better' for phosphates and nitrates, with many striving for near-zero levels. This approach led to the widespread use of nutrient-removing technologies like GFO (Granular Ferric Oxide) and aggressive water change schedules. However, over time, it became clear that this extreme approach sometimes did more harm than good, as it affected the symbiotic zooxanthellae within the corals, which are essential for their health and coloration.
Organic Nitrate and Phosphate come from sources like Fish Food/Waste, Bacteria, Plankton, and Coral Food. Unlike Organic Nitrate and Phosphate, Inorganic Nitrate and Phosphate are nearly completely broken down and testable with commonly used test kits. The goal for inorganic phosphate is 0.1 ppm, with an operating range of 0.05 - 0.15 ppm. With our 0.05 - 0.15 ppm phosphate goal, we expect our nitrates to land somewhere between 0.25 - 4.50 ppm.
Organic Nitrate and Phosphate are less available for algae, but still available for corals to consume, depending on the particulate sizes. This is where the right answer for nitrate and phosphate levels is not universal and should be applied to a specific goal. For instance, the authors of '52 Weeks of Reefing - Second Edition' specifically address the management of phosphate and nitrogen salts in saltwater aquariums by emphasizing the importance of controlling these nutrients to prevent algae growth and maintain coral health. They provide practical advice on monitoring and reducing phosphate and nitrogen levels to create a stable reef environment.
However, it's important to note that excess minerals from foods can lead to toxic accumulation in reef tanks. Common examples of equipment that help avoid issues with excess minerals include protein skimmers, roller filters, algae scrubbers, macro algae refugiums, and water changes. With these tools and a balanced approach to nutrient management, reef aquarium enthusiasts can maintain a healthy and vibrant ecosystem.
Everything else, such as unused vitamins and minerals, are longer term problems with many not easily tested for. Nutrients like nitrate and phosphate are near to mid-term problems that are easily correctable. By understanding the role of these nutrients and adopting a balanced approach, reef aquarium hobbyists can ensure the health and longevity of their aquatic ecosystems.
){kind=link}