Test Kits and Water Parameters

[equinecpa]

I have searched for test kit recommendations but apparently the word kit is too small to search for so I come up with all posts with "test" in it -oodles and oodles of them.

I'd like to know what should be tested in a planted tank and what are recommend test kits?

I just tested mine with a combination of test kids (aquarium pharmaceuticals and test strips) My results:

Ammonia 0.0
Nitrites 0.0
Nitrates 40ppm
KH- 300ppm
GH-25ppm
PH -7.9-8.0

I have yet to add CO2 but don't have high lights on the tank yet (I'm working on the hood this weekend to add 100 w MH to 30G)

I don't have much in the way of plants yet -java fern, banana plants, cryps, and some vals.

I imagine once I add CO2, the PH will come down and then my water parameters will be pretty ideal won't they?

Carolyn

 

[Guest]

Those nitrates are a bit high. And you should be testing for phosphates also.

 

[equinecpa]

Rex;

I'm aware I need a phosphate test but what do you recommend for a test kit for phosphates between the ones I have I don't have one.

I'll do a partial water change for the nitrates.

Carolyn

PS I'm disappointed about your site-I wouldn't let a few thorns bring you down.

 

[Guest]

For a phosphate test kit try a Red Sea or a Seachem. They both work well. Or if you have the $$ a LaMotte.

The site is back up.

 

[malkore]

I'd got with SeaChem. RedSea kits aren't that spectacular or accurate. Speaking of accuracy, ditch the test strips, they tend to be the least accurate test kits of all.