Phosphate

[Lifeoffroad]

How important is it to test for phosphates in a fresh water aquarium.

 

[RussellC]

How important is it to test for phosphates in a fresh water aquarium.

In my opinion it isn't terribly important.

It might be worth testing if one's tank has severe and continual algae problems -- but other than that, I can't see much reason to test for them.

 

[pitdogg2]

How important is it to test for phosphates in a fresh water aquarium.

if you have a planted AQ you should. I test all my city water for phosphates so I know the parameters of the water. My city water will hold about 2mg/L constant and can go higher. Phosphates do go up in the AQ from feed and other things and will cause alage blooms/problems.

It's really up to you the test are not to terribly expensive and at least you will know.

 

[Lifeoffroad]

So high phosphates only cause high algae growth? Anything harmful to the fish?

 

[pitdogg2]

not until extreme amounts will it start to kill fish.

 

[Lifeoffroad]

not until extreme amounts will it start to kill fish.

Okay cool. I don't have an issue with algae. Just wondering cause I see people do it.

 

[mohican]

+1 with pittdog. I test mine just the same as anything else. My city water has phosphate in it and excessive amounts can cause algae blooms. I try to keep am eye on it so when I dose fertilizer, I know where it is.