Calcium question

[jdnumis]

Is there an inexpensive way to have good calcium in my reef tank instead of getting a reactor for now? Should I dose? I want to get a lot of coral. I don't have any yet. Still doing my research

 

[chuck116]

Calcium

Its just my opinion , but you can either dose a 2 part like asv or brightwell, or you can just use a calcium only additive from say kent or one of the other manufacturers.

 

[TrIsTaTe05]

Is there a cheaper then a reactor yes short term no long term. the amount of money you will spend in a course of a year could be the cost of a reactor. if money is a issue then dose until you can save up to get a reactor. If you are looking to does i would look into the 2 part system from ESV outstanding product used on my tank for a few month and coraline algae was insane and calcium was some what steady, the other part is the alk wich you will def need to does. Alot of people does its not a bad thing in my opinion just expensive, the more corals the more calcium you will go through if your are considering doing heavy sps i would def look into getting a reactor. by the way what size is your tank?

 

[Chris Jury]

I would use a two-part additive system (calcium + alkalinity), such as the B-ionic by ESV. This method is probably the most foolproof, and often the best option for beginners IME. You can also mix your own solutions using materials from Bulk Reef Supply to cut down the costs pretty significantly.

Keep in mind though that calcium addition is only 1/2 of the equation. Corals and other organisms make calcium carbonate skeletons/shells. Alkalinity, of which carbonate is a part, is just as important as calcium. One without the other is completely useless.

 

[beerfish]

Make your own 2 part:

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/april2004/chem.htm

 

[DrHarryLopez]

I'll be making two part this w/e, pm me n u can come by n make some too

 

[jdnumis]

Thank you everyone for the advice.