Reef Aquarium Dosing Calculator

Dosing Formula:

\[ Dose = \frac{(Target - Current) \times Volume}{Element\ Factor} \]

Target (ppm):

ppm

Current (ppm):

ppm

Volume (gallons):

gallons

Element Factor (ppm per mL/gal):

ppm per mL/gal

Dose (mL):

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1. What is Reef Aquarium Dosing?

Reef aquarium dosing involves adding specific elements and compounds to maintain optimal water parameters for coral health and growth. This calculator helps determine the precise amount of supplement needed to reach target levels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dosing formula:

\[ Dose = \frac{(Target - Current) \times Volume}{Element\ Factor} \]

Where:

\( Target \) — Desired concentration in parts per million (ppm)
\( Current \) — Current measured concentration in ppm
\( Volume \) — Total water volume in gallons
\( Element\ Factor \) — Supplement concentration factor in ppm per mL per gallon

Explanation: This formula calculates the exact volume of supplement needed to raise water parameters from current to target levels based on your tank size and supplement concentration.

3. Importance of Proper Dosing

Details: Accurate dosing is crucial for maintaining stable reef aquarium parameters. Overdosing can harm corals and other inhabitants, while underdosing may lead to nutrient deficiencies and poor coral growth.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter target concentration in ppm, current measured concentration in ppm, total water volume in gallons, and the element factor specific to your supplement. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Element Factor?
A: Element Factor represents how much the supplement raises the concentration per mL per gallon of water. This value is typically provided by the supplement manufacturer.

Q2: How do I measure current levels accurately?
A: Use reliable test kits and follow instructions carefully. Test at the same time each day for consistency, preferably before any dosing.

Q3: Should I dose the full amount at once?
A: For large adjustments, it's safer to dose in smaller increments over several days to avoid shocking corals and other tank inhabitants.

Q4: What are common elements dosed in reef tanks?
A: Calcium, alkalinity, magnesium are the primary elements, with trace elements like strontium, iodine, and potassium also commonly supplemented.

Q5: How often should I test water parameters?
A: Test daily when establishing dosing routines, then 2-3 times per week once stable. More frequent testing helps maintain consistency.