Jkedra

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Hi guys, I was wondering which kind of aqueous phosphate ion(s) is/are found in saltwater aquariums, (if any)

Which one of these is found in an aquarium, or are all of these stages of PO4 found in a saltwater tank? Also, are there any natural components or substances that can neutralize these ions?

H3PO4

H3(PO4)-

H(PO4)2-

(PO4)3-
 

Boomer

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They are all in natural waters. They are a function of Salinity, pH, Temp and Alk. In short, as the pH gets lower the first form on your list is the highest and the last form is the least. As pH rises the last one on your list is the highest and the first is the lowest. So, in acid low pH water it will be mostly "H3PO4" and in alkaline waters like seawater it will b mostly PO4-- .

They really can not be "neutralized" but must be removed, such as the use of GFO , activated Alumia or Algae. Try reading through this.

Phosphorus: Algae's Best Friend
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/sept2002/chem.htm
 

Jkedra

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Thanks...the reason why I said neutralize is b/c of the cation and anion action. Like for example (not relating to the saltwater hobby, just in general) Calcium. If Ca levels are too high anywhere, it can be neutralized by elements such as Chlorine. But of course in a tank that is not possible.
 

Boomer

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Well, you can neutralize it, so to speak, usinng Lanthanum chloride, which yields Lanthanum phosphate and some do. The precip is then removed using a 2 - 5 micron sock before it enters the tank.
 
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Boomer

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If Ca levels are too high anywhere, it can be neutralized by elements such as Chlorine. But of course in a tank that is not possible.

I forgot, not even, unless the water content is like ~10%. It is adding a buffer like BS or BBS that does that.

Ca++ + CO3-- ---> CaCO3
 
M

MarineLover

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2 types

There are two forms of phosphate:
a) inorganic b) organic. Unfortunately,
the majority of aquarium hobbyists kits marketed for testing phosphate cannot discern between inorganic and organic forms of phosphate. so which is which?
 

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