Reef Tank Supplements

[RobertG]

A good general rule of thumb: If you can't/don't test for it, don't dose it!

I second this, Iodine should be tested before dosing. In the years I've been reef keeping I dont use it.
My Cal. reactor takes care of all the supplements. Also water changes.

[GaryP]

The only additives I would suggest are calcium, buffer, and possibly magnesium. Everything else should be taken care of by frequent water changes. I agree with the earlier statement about not adding it if you don't test for it.

As for iodine, I'm not convinced as the the accuracy of the test kits. Iodine may exist in 3 different forms (iodine, iodide, and iodate) in sea water and I doubt that a single test kit would catch all 3. For the record, Lugol's contains iodide and and iodine, most other additives contain potassium iodide. Theses are converted to iodate in sea water. Another note: it is very easy to overdose with Lugol's. Iodine is chemically like chlorine and can be a strong oxidizer and is toxic. Use it with care. If you do use Lugol's, several small additions every few days, rather than larger weekly additions, are the way to go. When I say small, I mean 1-2 drops.

Gary

[obtusewit]

Josh gave you the best advice, "If you don't test for it, don't add it." After your tank cycles testing is pretty much a no-brainer... Nitrates-fixed by water changes and cutting back on those feeding frenzies, Calcium and Alkalinity-gotta add something sometimes, Magnesium - maybe, but most salt mixes handle that, Strontium and Molybdenum - dang, Kent made some buckeroos on that stuff, Iodine - its mainly for cuts if you lived in the 50's, I have vintage bottle FULL and a test kit covered with dust - water changes seems to be enough (Lugol's makes up into a great "tick dip" for ailing corals, tho).

I use carbon from time to time to get the yellow out, but even so, I have no compelling urge to pee in the sump... well maybe that one time after all those margarita snails..no salt please, I have plenty!

[StephenA]

One thing everyone here has taught me is to Keep It Simple!

Gary:
Isn't Iodine removed by a skimmer?

I only use it as dip when I have issues or frag a leather.

[GaryP]

Stephen,

Yes, Iodine is removed by the skimmer, as well as by carbon.

Gary