Tests
Dosing Pumps (peristaltic pumps):
- Liquid is automatically pumped from the drums
- Essentials for Reefs with Many SPS Corals
Phosphates (PO4)
Why does it matter?
Phosphates are nutrients for algae. In marine aquariums with corals, high levels inhibit calcification. In planted aquariums, they are necessary in low concentrations.
Values
| Type | Maximum PO4 |
|---|---|
| SPS Reef | 0.03–0.05 ppm |
| LPS Reef/Soft Coral Reef | 0.05–0.1 ppm |
| Marine FOWLR | <0.5 ppm |
| Freshwater planted tank | 0.5 – 2 ppm |
| General Freshwater | <1 ppm |
Sources of Phosphates
- Leftover food and feces
- Tap water (in many regions)
- Inexpensive Synthetic Decorations
- No-rinse regenerated resins
How to Lower Phosphate Levels
- Water Changes
- Phosphate resins (Rowaphos, PhosGuard)
- Phosphate Reactor (GFO — Granular Ferric Oxide)
- Shelter with macroalgae (Chaetomorpha absorbs PO4 and NO3)
- Reduce food intake
TDS — Total Dissolved Solids
What is it?
It measures the total concentration of all ions and molecules dissolved in water (in ppm or μS/cm).
Main Uses
- Quality control of osmosis water (must be <10 ppm)
- Water Quality Control for Shrimp (Highly Sensitive to TDS)
- Detection of Contaminated Water
Nutrient Values for Shrimp (Common Reference)
| Type of shrimp | Target TDS |
|---|---|
| Neocaridina (Cherry) | 150–250 ppm |
| Caridina (Crystal Red Bee) | 100–150 ppm |
| Taiwanese (Taiwan Bee) | 100–130 ppm |
Note: A high TDS reading does not mean the water is “bad”—it depends on what is dissolved in it. Osmosis water remineralized with Salty Shrimp can have a TDS of 150 and be perfect; tap water with a TDS of 150 may contain chlorine, pesticides, etc.