I thought low mag levels made Cal difficult

I got my mag levels tested yesterday. 1485

The LFS guy said that high mag levels usually make it hard to keep calcium in the tank.

I thought that low mag levels made it hard to keep calcium in the tank? Is it both?

And BTW, i thought that 1485 was just on the high side of the "good range". Am i wrong?

 

From what I understand higher magnesium levels make it easier for corals that need calcium to absorb it (the calcium). lower magnesium levels make it harder for corals to absorb calcium, thus leaving un-used calcium in the water longer.

~Will.

 

...that's what i thought too.

its seems like higher would be better.

He advised me to try and bring it down from 1485 - although he didnt have any ideas on how to do that really other than adding lower SG (1.022) water in my next water change.

 

what are your cal and alk at? 1485 is fine,read this,
Chemistry and the Aquarium
p.s. your lfs guy sounds like a moron.

 

Cal - 400+
Alk 3.9

 

...read the article. thanks alot K+

According to that i am on the high side, but not by far - and it doesn't sound like it could be an issue.

 

I keep my Mg between 1470 and 1500. Ever since, keeping my Ca and Alk stable has been a breeze (i daily dose both those).

My salt is at 1.026 btw.

 

my SG is at 1.025, RC and IO. I think im going to start using Red sea though