Know your real salinity?

Has probably been discussed numerous times before on 3Reef, but was just reading about last night and thought worth reposting.

Salinity, density, is correlated with temperature.

i.e. If the density reads 1.0250 at 68 degrees F - it will read 1.0274 if the temperature rises to 77 degrees F.

A density of 1.025 at 77 degrees F corresponds to 37 to 37.17 a very high salinity (off chart - http://www.msc.ucla.edu/oceanglobe/pdf/temp_densal_chart.pdf)

For a reef tank at 77F (25C) the salinity should range between 1.021-1.024 g/ml (32 and 36 ppt)

So point is, check the salinity of your aquarium regularly with an accurate measuring device - algae blooms are a almost sure sign of low salinity - while tank inhabitants are at risk with a very high salinity.

FYI

OmarD

 

I just keep mine close to about 1.024 Its one less thing to worry about , I've Never been a person who spazzes about temps or salinity rising up or falling down a few notches. Like where on any reef is it always static ?

 

I actually agree with you tangy, haha! +karma

 

That depends on your device

HI,
I checked my device againts two different LPS and found a huge difference between devices.
My plastic model is off by +.02 so if it reads 1.o25 its really 1.023.
Don't assume your device is always correct.
I orderded a nice refractometer compensated at marine depot and its pretty good So once a month I check my plastic one againts the expensive one to be sure.
If you rinse with water after use you get better reading consisitantly.
Your answers are based on the accuracy of your device at the time you checked. and how many times its hit the floor. hehe
Doug