What do I need to test

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Mcgolg76

Aquarium Advice FINatic
Joined
Aug 7, 2013
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Seeing a lot of conflicting info on what is essential to test. Have 29g that I plan to start adding my first corals soon. The current test kits I have are api liquid ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and ph. What are the other essential ones to get. Figure i need calcium and alkinity. Is salifert the best to use? Also have a bunch of inverts. Should I test for iodine


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Salifert kits are really good. I also test for Mg and phosphate.


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The API test kit is good during cycling a tank. I don't recommend it on a matured stable reef tank since it is known for it's inaccuracy. I go for Salifert also. The most essential tests you need are pH, kH, magnesium, calcium, phosphate, nitrate, salinity and temp. You can test the ammonia and nitrite once in a while or when there is a sign of trouble.
 
The only truly hobby grade reliable phosphate tester is the Hanna one. None of the others test low enough. But yeah I like salifert for calcium/alk and mag


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