low Ca/ high mag?

Discussion in 'Water Chemistry' started by erik, Oct 5, 2012.

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  1. erik

    erik Spaghetti Worm

    Joined:
    Dec 20, 2010
    Messages:
    180
    My magnesium has always been a little high (usually 1500-1520) but i tested it a little while ago and it is up to 1600. I understand that this isnt harmful, but i dont supplement mag so i dont see how it could be being added to the water. Also my calcium was down to 390. I have a basic understanding of the relationship between mag, ca, and alk, but im not sure if low calcium could cause a high mag reading, or vice versa? if not what else could cause my mag to get so high?
    other params:
    ph- 8.1 (salifert)
    salinity- 1.025
    alk- 10 dkh
    alk, ca, and mag were tested with a red sea kit. TIA
     
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  3. grinder37

    grinder37 Whip-Lash Squid

    Joined:
    Sep 17, 2009
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    2,984
    Are you including the proper airgap in the tritration syringe?If not,you may just be getting a false mag reading.I think the red sea mag test is a good kit overall,but it is a touchy one,the syringe air gap is a pita.Just a thought.
     
  4. Moxtrain

    Moxtrain Peppermint Shrimp

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    Sep 15, 2011
    Messages:
    406
    Location:
    Boise, Id
    Might be coming in with your water changes as well. If it's not being stripped from the water column it could start rising over time with repeated changes.