Tank parameters?

[dpotts]

I'm new to reef tanks and just started a 29g biocube. I currently have my cleaning crew and will eventually have soft corals and a few small fish. I was wondering what I should be testing for daily/weekly/monthly and what the "normal" parameters should be?

[tony]

welcome to maast!!!

i would test:

salinity
ph
nitrates
ammonia

at minimum

[Captain Jack]

...and temperature is a good one :wink_smile:

[Captain Jack]

Everyone will probably do things differently, but here is a list of my Maintenance Guidelines.

Daily Check:
Livestock
Temperature (Log)
Water Level
Flow Rates
Skimmer

Weekly Check & Log:
Nitrates
Alkalinity
pH
SG
Top-Off
Clean:
Glass, Lid, etc.
Skimmer Cup
Water Change:
5-10%
Vaccume 1/2 Subsrate
Stored Water:
Mixed Salt Water
Top-Off Fresh Water

Monthly Clean:
Aquascape
Refugium
Pumps
Filter Foam & Bucket
Rotate Part Carbon
Check:
Equipment
Wireing
Log

6-12 Months Equipment Maintenance
Check Lighting
Clean/Replace Substrate

[Captain Jack]

This will vary based on the needs of your inhabitants, or your future inhabitants. I recommend researching the care (and parameters) of all your current and planned critters, and cater to their needs.

Temperature: some people will go for mid-high 70's. I stay around 81-84.
rapid swings is probably the biggest problem.

amonia and nitrite should be 0 once your tank has cycled.

nitrate should probably be <20 for the fish, and preferably <5 if you have sensative inverts (perhaps the corals you plan to get)

pH 8.0-8.5, stability is important.

specific gravity of 1.025-1.026

I recommend reading a good book or two on marine aquariums to get a foundation. It can help avoid making common mistakes, and also give you a basis to judge and filter through all the internet-based advice.