Once your reef consumes more than 1 dKH per day, manual dosing becomes impractical. Both calcium reactors and two-part automation solve the problem differently.
Two-part automation
Three peristaltic pumps dosing alk, calcium, and (sometimes) magnesium. ~$300 for the dosers, $20/month in solution.
Calcium reactor
CO2 lowers pH inside a reactor chamber, dissolving aragonite media. ~$600 setup, $40/year in media + CO2.
Verdict
Two-part for tanks under 90g; calcium reactor for SPS-dominant tanks above 120g.
Every new coral is a potential vector for Aiptasia eggs, flatworms, red bugs, and montipora-eating nudibranchs. Dipping is non-negotiable.Bayer AdvancedActive ingredient imidacloprid.…
Both methods remove phosphate effectively. They suit different tank sizes and different operator personalities.GFO (granular ferric oxide)Passive, predictable, slow. Set in a…
Reef-keepers’ notes
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