Need advice. Looking for a specific salt.

I just need a straight forward answer, which I doubt I'll get anyway. But I'll try. I have researched this, but get results all over the board. I'm running a ulns and want a good low alk salt that will be in the 7-8dkh range. Right now I use Reef Crystals but my alk runs 9+. Anyone know of a salt that will give me this. I'm thinking of Tropic Marin Pro. Are there any cheaper ones?

 

What about just regular I/O? I don't remember alk level off the top of my head, but I know it is lower than RC and much cheaper!

 

Your faith in us is most underwhelming but I do understand. I have not run accross any in the ones I have used. I have used Reef Crystals, Instant Ocean, Red Sea Pro, Seachem's regular and Reef salts. All seemed to be in the 9dKH and higher range.

Good luck in your quest.

 

Lol, it's not just my faith in this forum. I just know that usually you can't get a definite answer on questions in this hobby. And after researching this topic it seems that not even alk in salts is a definite thing. I've found alk levels all across the chart for the same salt! I just wish the companies came out and stated "these are the levels out salt will give you."

 

Doing some more research on it, and I think you are right. Each study shows the same mixes having very different levels of all trace elements. I suggested I/O as it is known to be one of most stable salt mixes. However alk is still higher than you want. :-/

 

The inconsistancy of batches is well documented and disconcerting for someone in your spot.

I think Marshall O has the best suggestion. Just make sure you mix your new salt very well when it is dry to keep it as consistant as possible and test each time you mix up water. You might be able to bring the level down by adding Ca or Mg to the water before adding it to the tank. I do know IO is very low on Mg as are most salts.

 

I might just go with the ESV system and make my own. That way I know what it's at and it won't vary.

 

instant ocean works great for me

 

I was in the same boat as you until recently, I was trying to get the "right" salt with many different trace elements/minerals ect..

I got a bad batch of Seachem Reef salt and replaced it with I/O. I have come to terms that there will never be the "perfect salt" that matches the params of your tank.

ESV is great but very $$, I would love to have some on hand for emergencies.

 

I think I found one. Brightwell Neomarine salt. They advertise natural saltwater levels with the levels of the elements printed right on the bucket! That's what I like! A company that's not afraid to print on their product exactly what's in it. If its wrong, I'm assuming they'll stand behind it. I haven't mixed up a batch yet, but I will test it when I do.