Stop Chasing Numbers – Focus on Stability Instead
If you’ve been in the reefing game for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard someone say, “Stability is key.”
And they’re right — but let’s dig into why.
The Problem with Chasing Numbers
Too many reefers fixate on perfect water parameters: calcium at 450, alkalinity at 8.5, magnesium at 1350, pH at 8.3. The problem? Every time one value drops a little, they panic and dose. Then dose again. And again.
This constant adjusting creates a swinging environment that stresses your corals more than a slightly “off” but stable system ever would.
What Corals Really Want
- Consistency: Corals thrive when your tank stays in a predictable range, not when you’re constantly trying to tweak back to a textbook ideal.
- Slow Changes: If you do need to adjust something (like low alkalinity), do it slowly over days — not in one go.
- Balance: High alkalinity with low calcium? You're asking for trouble. Make sure adjustments don’t throw off your overall balance.
Ideal Ranges to Aim For
- Alkalinity: 7.5 – 9 dKH
- Calcium: 400 – 450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250 – 1350 ppm
- pH: 7.8 – 8.4 (don’t chase 8.3 if your tank sits at 7.9 consistently)
How to Build True Stability
-
Test Regularly
Track parameters with consistent methods and timing. Automated testing systems like the Neptune Trident can help remove human error. -
Use Dosing Systems
Automate your calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium dosing with a system like the Neptune DOS for rock-solid consistency. -
Watch Coral Behaviour
Polyp extension, colour, and growth will tell you far more than numbers alone. If your corals are thriving, resist the urge to intervene.
The Takeaway
In reefing, “perfect” isn’t real — but “stable” is. You’re better off running at 8.0 dKH every day than bouncing between 7.5 and 9.0 just to hit a number on a chart.
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