snowstorm in tank

My tank is now 7 weeks old. I have 3 small clown and a clean up crew. PH-0 Ammonia-0 Nitrite-0 Nitrate-0. I have been using Calxmax 2 part to my tank and when I add part B I get a snowstorm effect. My calicum reading looks to be about 290. What is going on??? Thanks in advance for your help!

 

That is normal if you are putting your calcium ( part B ) directly into your tank, Try putting it in a high flow area of your tank or in your sump .............. John

 

Thanks for the quick answer, and now one more quick ?? Should I be testing Alkalinity, cant get calcium above 290

 

Yes and your Magnesium level also Mag should be between 1350-1500 mg/litre ................... John

 

Thanks again

 

You Bet ;D

 

DF, Before you go through anymore dosing you need to measure Alk. as John mentioned. Mag is important but it won't hold your CA level down. Once you get a Alk reading refer to this link. It is an article on correcting your water parameters.

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/nov2002/chem.htm

I believe your better of using Ca and Alk additives separately till you achieved the correct levels. I use Kent Turbo Ca and Kent Super buffer. The 2-part is an Ionicly balanced formula designed to maintain correct levels.

Any of the chemestry gurus feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.

 

Thanks for the advise, But just one more little question. I have been adding calcium (by salifert) and I see little or no change.Is this because of my Alkalinity is off. (remember I havent tested for that) I will print and read the article you posted and get some test kits. Again thanks

 

somethingfishy

Severely depleted levels of magnesium (below 800 mg/L) can cause depressed pH levels and an inability to maintain proper calcium levels.

Read this

http://www.reefland.com/forum/showpost.php?postid=50338&postcount=2

 

Yup! I was having the same problem! Got the Mag fixed and VIOLA! Everything is stable now and all I add is ESV Bionic to maintain it with the Kalk