different test results for calcium

now i dont know what to do! all w/parameters are within range. i used 'instant ocean' to test calcium levels and the results were 435. acceptable range, right? 'tropic marin' has a 2 part test for mag and calcium, while using that test it showed my calcium levels were 488. too high. i dont know which test is more accurate. however, i did notice one of my emerald crabs were no longer emerald, but white. possibly from the calcium. any suggestions that wont require a 3rd test kit?

 

What is your Mag and Alk ?

I was going to suggest a Salifert test - I have a pinpoint calcium probe and Salifert tests the same as the probe.

 

I use the Tropic marin combined test kit myself
last weeks test on my DT gave me 461 Calc and 1470 mag

I use Red Sea coral pro salt and if I mix that at 1.025 - I can get 480 Calc straight from the bucket - no calcium additions.

488 may not be within ideal parameters but its not a major issue IMO
as long as the other parameters Mag and Alk are in balance
example - if you where to increase your Alk by 1 degree your calc would fall by approx 20ppm

I trust the Tropic marin kit to be honest

Steve

 

Take to your LFS and see what they test at.

 

I don't think Ca at 480 would cause a problem. At least I hope not since that's what mine is at.

 

Not sure why you think 488 ppm is too high. I maintain mine between 450-500 ppm. I have been told by my reliable LFS buddies that 2 test, test kits are not as reliable as single test, test kits. I doubted that as Mag affects calk, so I had used the 2 test kit you used, anyway, both of your tests are close enough but I would go off the Tropic Marin.

 

That much of a difference is not alot at all..nothing to worry about. Remember you are talking parts per million. My Ca is at 525

 

First you may have a problem but that would all depend on your Alk. CA and Alk need to be in balance. If you have very very low Alk and CA at 488 it is possible to have an issue. But regardless fish and inverts are not effected by these things.

 

my alk levels are ok. last tested with 'instant ocean' and i got a reading of 3.0 or 8.4 dkh, which is acceptable but better @ 3.5 meq. maybe i should raise my alk levels some?