Reef carbonate 250ml SEACHEM

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Reef Carbonate 250 ml Seachem – liquid alkalinity supplement for reef aquarium

Reef Carbonate is a concentrated blend of carbonate and bicarbonate salts, formulated to restore and maintain carbonate alkalinity in reef aquariums. It actively contributes to the growth of calcifying organisms and the chemical stability of the system.

Main Features

Role of Carbonates in Reef Aquariums

Carbonates are essential for the formation of the calcareous skeletons of corals, coralline algae, and many invertebrates. A deficiency in alkalinity leads to a halt in calcification, followed by a rapid weakening of organisms.

Reef Carbonate helps maintain stable alkalinity while contributing to the stabilization of pH around 8.3 to 8.4 thanks to its high pK, which is superior to products relying solely on sodium bicarbonate.

Advantages of Reef Carbonate

Unlike competing formulations, Reef Carbonate uses an optimized blend of carbonates and bicarbonates, offering better pH stability in closed reef systems with high organic compound production.

When used according to recommendations, Reef Carbonate does not deplete calcium, magnesium, or strontium, elements often affected by poorly managed alkalinity.

Usage Instructions

Beginner Level

Use 5 ml per 80 L of water, twice a week.

It is recommended to dilute the product in a freshwater container before adding.

Check alkalinity every two weeks and adjust the quantity or frequency if necessary.

Advanced Level

Measure alkalinity, then follow the addition scheme until reaching a value between 4 and 5 meq/L.

Each 5 ml per 80 L increases alkalinity by approximately 0.25 meq/L.

Do not exceed 20 ml per 80 L per day.

Expert Level

After determining the alkalinity consumption rate, a continuous drip system can be set up.

The amount to add to the top-off water can be calculated using the following formula: m = v × a ÷ 4, where m corresponds to the milliliters to add, v to the aquarium volume in liters, and a to the desired increase in meq/L.

Notes and Considerations

It is preferable to add Reef Carbonate gradually in an area with strong water flow.

The recommended alkalinity in a reef aquarium is between 3 and 6 meq/L.

Excess alkalinity can lead to increased loss of calcium, magnesium, and strontium.

Do not mix directly with calcium, magnesium, or strontium supplements. Space additions by at least 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Presence of Crystals in the Bottle

The formation of white crystals can occur when the product is exposed to low temperatures. This phenomenon is normal. Once the product is warmed, simply shake the bottle to dissolve them.

Difference Between Reef Carbonate and Reef Builder

Reef Builder is the powdered version of Reef Carbonate. Both products have the same goal and equivalent results. The liquid formulation allows for higher concentration.

Compatibility with Equipment

It is not necessary to turn off filtration or the skimmer when adding Reef Carbonate.

Package Contents

Reef Carbonate Seachem packaged in a 250 ml bottle.