Can't keep nitrate level down

[Kelp]

Pet Warehouse has Kent brand sponge -others too. check it out http://www.petwarehouse.com/webstore/webstore. nsf/fbd771ea8d7ff4fa852567da006d3cd2/5b6c60fcfee67df58725672300699d22?OpenDocument

[ August 18, 2001: Message edited by: Kelp ]

 

[danmhippo]

I used to have the nitrate problem with my 150G as well. Chemical nitrate sponge does not work well IME. Not until I do the combination of growing Caulerpa and DSB, after 3 months, I see there is a decline of nitrate.

You also mentioned you did several 20% water changes but nitrate level is still high. I would recommend you to check several things.
1. Cross check the reading of your test kits.
2. Check the nitrate level of your NSW or Top-off water. If using RO/DI, check that too.
3. What was the typical readings of nitrate before you do the water change and after?

 

[bigtank]

If you have enough light and compatible animals in there, why not add a couple clams? They are quite good at reducing nitrates.

I think a refugium with a DSB is the best option otherwise.

 

[FishHead1]

I have a 180 and after several 20% water changes I can't keep the nitrate level down. They remain around 20. The set up is almost two years mature without a DSB. Are any of the nitrate sponges or products worth a try?
Thanks for your help.

 

[Lunchbucket]

set up a refugium and let you macro algae (calupra's) use it up as food. easy way to keep them down

later
Lunchbucket

 

[popepain]

do u use salt mix or do u buy sea water? if salt your ph might be low causing to much stres just a thought .old salt =bad PH ...you could hook up a canister filter and run nitrate sponge chips in it .i do this in my sump wich only has live rock

 

[scavdog]

I have had a nitrate problem in my 54 bow for months now. The fish and inverts do very well regardless (1 maroon clown, 1 royal gramma, pair of coral banded shrimp, derasa clam, snails and hermits and numerous corals)
I have a couple other systems and have no problems what-so-ever regarding nitrates.
There are some people on this board who do not consider nitrates much of a hassel.

What do you hae for livestock? and how much do you feed?

A refugium is a great solution that I want to incorporate in to my 54 system.

HTH