1. What is the Reef Aquarium Dosing Calculator?

The Reef Aquarium Dosing Calculator helps aquarists determine the precise amount of supplement needed to achieve desired water parameters in a reef aquarium. It's essential for maintaining proper levels of calcium, alkalinity, magnesium, and other trace elements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dosing equation:

Where:

• \( Desired \) — Target concentration (ppm)
• \( Current \) — Current measured concentration (ppm)
• \( Volume \) — Total water volume of the aquarium (liters)
• \( Strength \) — Concentration of the dosing solution (ppm per ml)

Explanation: The equation calculates the volume of supplement needed to raise the concentration from current to desired levels, accounting for your tank size and supplement strength.

3. Importance of Accurate Dosing

Details: Precise dosing is critical in reef aquariums to maintain stable water parameters without overshooting targets, which can stress or harm corals and other marine life.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Use accurate test kits to measure current levels
• Know your true water volume (account for rock displacement)
• Check the concentration of your dosing solution
• Dose gradually, especially when making large adjustments

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I test my water parameters?
A: For established tanks, test at least weekly. When adjusting levels or in new tanks, test daily until stable.

Q2: What's the safest rate to increase parameters?
A: Generally no more than 0.5 dKH per day for alkalinity, 5 ppm per day for calcium, and 10 ppm per day for magnesium.

Q3: Should I dose all at once or split doses?
A: For large adjustments, split doses over several days to avoid shocking corals. Small adjustments can often be done at once.

Q4: How do I account for rock and sand displacement?
A: Subtract about 15-20% from your tank's total volume for typical rockwork, or measure precisely by filling the tank with known quantities.

Q5: What if my dose seems too large?
A: Double-check your measurements and calculations. Large doses may indicate a testing error or the need for water changes instead.