Beginner's Guide to Dosing in Coral Aquariums | Types and Usage of Supplements
Explanation of the types and roles of supplements used in coral aquariums. Introduction to how to use two-part solutions, trace elements, amino acids, and bacterial supplements, as well as how to set up dosing pumps.
Key Takeaways
Explanation of the types and roles of supplements used in coral aquariums. Introduction to how to use two-part solutions, trace elements, amino acids, and bacterial supplements, as well as how to set up dosing pumps.
Related Species
What is Dosing in Coral Aquariums? Starting with the Basics
Coral skeletons are composed primarily of calcium carbonate, made up of calcium and carbonate ions. For corals to grow, they must continuously absorb these elements from the water. However, in aquariums, water changes alone cannot keep up with consumption, and concentrations gradually decline.
To compensate for this deficiency, regular dosing of supplements (known as "dosing") is used. In aquariums with multiple SPS (Small Polyp Stony Corals), especially those featuring Acropora, calcium and KH (carbonate hardness) consumption is extremely high, making it difficult to maintain stable water quality without dosing. Even in aquariums centered on LPS (Large Polyp Stony Corals) or soft corals, incorporating dosing can stabilize coral condition, enhance coloration, and promote growth.
First, understand the overall picture of dosing and choose a method suited to your aquarium.
---
The Foundation: Two-Part Solutions (Calcium & Alkalinity)
If you're starting with dosing, the standard approach is to begin with "two-part solutions." By adding equal volumes of Solution A (calcium solution) and Solution B (alkalinity solution), you can maintain both calcium concentration and KH (carbonate hardness) in your tank simultaneously.
Solution A (Calcium Solution)
This liquid, primarily composed of calcium chloride, replenishes the calcium ions necessary for skeleton formation. The target value is generally 380–450 ppm, and deviating from this range can result in slower coral growth or fragile skeletons.
Solution B (Alkalinity Solution)
Primarily composed of sodium bicarbonate, this maintains KH. The target value is typically 8–10 dKH. Since KH also relates to the water's buffering capacity, a decline can lead to rapid pH fluctuations.
Rules for Using Two-Part Solutions
- Always add equal volumes of Solution A and Solution B: If either becomes excessive, the ionic balance is disrupted and white precipitate may form.
