Success in a Reef — Magnesium

Success in a Reef: Magnesium.

          Foundation elements are so titled to emphasize their necessity. Within the three primary foundation element parameters we discussed in our prior blog, you’ll surely remember the passive Magnesium. This parameter is much easier to maintain than Alkalinity, because, while it is critical for the formation of a variety of structures, including the skeletons and shells of many corals and other organisms, it doesn’t fluctuate a lot, and when it does, they are rarely dangerous to organisms.

Success in a Reef: Mixing Saltwater.

          When we setup our aquariums, maintain them, and enjoy them, most people probably assume they are taking care of the creatures within, and to an extent, they are of course correct. However, what they are really doing, is taking care of the water. If you pay close attention to your water quality, your fish and corals will be very happy. So, where do we begin with that? Well, by choosing an appropriate salt first and foremost, and then secondly, testing your current aquarium water. Together, we’ll go over a few of the most popular salt mixes, their unique differences, and how to mix saltwater properly.

Success in a Reef: Introduction to the Foundation Elements.

          When you think about the foundation of a reef, you’re probably thinking about rocks, and by now, corals as well. Pat yourself on the back, because you’re right. In fact, well developed reefs are covered from head to toe in coral. We consider it a true marvel of the world that these creatures, through thousands of years, have been able to create incredible monuments, like the Great Barrier Reef. What I am referring to, however, is what these organisms utilize to build these reefs; the super saturated, highly abundant elements they pull from the water. These foundation elements, which are primarily Calcium(Ca), Magnesium(Mg), and Alkalinity compounds, are the building blocks of a Coral Reef. Literally. Each and every creature in the sea utilize or rely on these foundation elements, in one way or another. Maintaining these elements is a continuous (albeit painless) battle, with ups and downs, and is absolutely crucial to our success as reef aquarists, but luckily, companies such as Red Sea and Salifert make this very simple with their pharmaceutical grade, well concentrated products and highly accurate, easy to use tests. Together, we’ll explore these foundation elements, and touch briefly on the importance of maintaining their stability within our aquariums.