Alk

[ramsey]

I've read some about alkalinity and I understand it's just to measure the carbonate in your system. I've read Randy Holmes-Farleys article and pretended to understand it. However, what purpose does running an alk above 7dkh serve? Sea water is about 7 yet most people run their tanks higher. I'm running a lower alk level because I've read that it helps with SPS when carbon dosing. Not sure if this is true. However, I'm curious what benefits running alk higher than sea water gives you. Does anyone know?

[CoryDude]

Man, I've seen this question debated row a while now. I've never understood the idea do maintaining higher than normal alk #'s. Personally, I think stability is more important than a specific level.

Never heard of that carbon dosing and low alk idea before. But if it works then it works, right?

[Scutterborn]

From as little research I've done, it seems that Alk is more of a measurement of how well Ca and Mg bind in accordance with ph. Whilst we strive for higher numbers, I believe it's only to have faster growth.

This is a subject I am just beginning to broach in my quest to attain ultimate knowledge. Lol. JK. Lets say a quest to attain a basic understanding...

:)


- Ben -