Nano Reef Aquariums, as easy as 1, 2, 3! [Part 3]

 Part 3 of 3 of April's feature: Nano Reef Aquariums.  If you haven't already, read part one and part two first!

Part 3:  Water Quality

Water quality is an important issue in the nano reef aquarium.  With such a small water volume, you're going to have to keep on top of your maintenance if you want to keep a healthy reef. 

Large weekly water changes of at least 1/3rd of the volume of the tank (preferably 1/2 to all of it!) should be performed weekly (ensure the replacement water is the same temp/salinity).  When I first started keeping nano aquariums, I was having a lot of trouble maintaining proper water quality. I was using various additives, which would cause my water chemistry to go out of whack because of the small water volume, which would lead to more water chemistry problems, causing a never ending cycle!  I finally realized something so simple it should have occurred to me sooner: stop using additives, and just stick to water changes! Weekly water changes of 50-75% are highly recommended to remove wastes and replace trace elements and calcium.  Chemical supplements/additives are both not recommended and not necessary in a nano reef. 

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Comments

[fish aquariums]

Very true!I have been cahnging the water in my 24g aquapod for the last 3 or 4 months and I have seen a huge improvement!

Thanks for the article :)

[Captive Aquatics]

You're very welcome!