soft corals help fight nitrate?

so i was at the pet store getting me self some critters and mentioned to the shopkeep that im having a nitrate/nitrite spike (proceeded to a 30% water change and watching the situation.)

now aside the fact that probs the spike was due to the fact i added too many fish too quickly the shop keeper said that soft corals (ricordea and other mushroom coral) actually help fight nitrite as this is one of the substances they grown on.....is this true!?!? i smell a light sent of good old BS but hey! im willing to believe it. thought the growing bases of corals was calcium and magni. anyway let me know

 

It is believed that soft corals such as those you mentioned do fine in waters that contain higher nitrates than would be enjoyed by LPS/SPS corals.

That being said, I would not rely solely on any coral for nutrient export. This is one of those "teach a kid to fish" scenarios. You can continue to treat the symptoms, but until you address the underlying cause, it will all be "band aid" fixes.

Responsible rates and density of stocking is very important.
Next it is important to have proper filtration and a consistent proven maintenance routine.

Finally, testing and retesting will ensure you are keeping your params in check.

 

corals do remove nitrate however not nearly in the quantities you would need to be useful.