Supplements for new tank?

[d2mini]

So now that my tank is pretty much established and I'm adding some life to it, what if anything should I start adding to the tank in preparation for keeping corals? I did throw in a small zoa frag that only has about 5 polyps on it just to see what happens. But I eventually want to have a nice mix of stuff.

TIA! :)

 

[Reefrookie]

Other than water changes, I would not add anything until you do tests for calcium,alkalinity and magnesium. Thats a good start

 

[d2mini]

Ya, good point. I have salifert calcium and alk test kits left over from about 4 years ago. Can i still use these or do i have to buy new?

 

[Reefrookie]

I think they should have dates on them. Four years seems a bit old though

 

[daugherty]

i would get new ones. and if you dont test for it dont add it.

 

[dustin_P74]

+1 daugherty

 

[yote]

+2
As a rule,never add anything your not testing for.

 

[d2mini]

Right, gotcha.
So would i be rushing if I want to start testing for that stuff now?

 

[yote]

Nope.Matter of fact.Its a good habit to get into.

 

[Piggy]

You should have a test kit for ph,nitrites,nitrates,alklinity,ammonia,and calcium. Plus magnesium once you get corals.

 

[Bifferwine]

Most test kits expire after one year. But you shouldn't need to be dosing anything. If you get a calcium test kit, you can start working on keeping your calcium up around 300 to 400. It can be a balancing act.