Iodine, Potassium, & Iron, OH MY!

Discussion in 'Water Chemistry' started by mdbostwick, Jun 28, 2015.

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  1. mdbostwick

    mdbostwick Vlamingii Tang

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    So I was poking around in a MarineDepot catalog and saw Red Sea Reef Colors Pro Kit - Reef Care - Iodine, Potassium & Iron, and it really got me thinking. What would i test these for? I really don't have an answer for this other than for "Reef Colors".

    So I was wondering if anyone tests for these things? Should I be testing for these things? I assume this is not something I should test for even on a weekly basis or if at all. I don't know enough about these three elements in my tank to even know what level they should be.

    So what i am really wanting to know is, who tests for these things and what have you learned about your water chemistry, or your corals health, in regards to these tests.

    If you have an article you have read which has information on this topic, I would love to have a link posted here because I really enjoy doing the reading and learning more about this hobby, but i would really like first hand experience if you have that as well.
     
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  3. Mr. Bill

    Mr. Bill Native Floridian

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    I've never tested for or dosed these or many other available elements as I don't believe it's necessary. For the sake of argument, here's an excellent article from a well-known and trusted aquarist/author, Randy Holmes-Farley, which outlines the pros and cons for those who wish to go beyond the main three, cal, mag, and alk. Hope this helps. :)

    http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-04/rhf/index.php
     
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  4. mdbostwick

    mdbostwick Vlamingii Tang

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    Excellent, I have read most of his articles and couldn't find one from him.

    I agree in not dosing these, or anything, without first testing for it.
     
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  5. Va Reef

    Va Reef Giant Squid

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    Never dose without testing, as everyone says.

    Those test kits, after speaking with a Red Sea rep, are mainly only for testing when dosing Red Sea's coral colors kit too, so as not to overdose any of the elements and to maintain a "healthy" level. I have not used the product as the kit itself is $60 plus the dosing product is another $30 or so. Much happier with my balling method+acropower.
     
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  6. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    Snake oil, imo.
     
  7. Va Reef

    Va Reef Giant Squid

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    Wouldn't say that, as in theory, these elements are found in NSW, if for whatever reason water changes aren't cutting it in replenishing these, the test kit, and corresponding dosing supplement will make a difference in color, ime.
     
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  9. DSC reef

    DSC reef Giant Squid

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    I've been dosing potassium, iodide, and have noticed my corals color up tremendously. I test for the elements I add but I definitely would not call it snake oil. I've been using thrive products and there a good product. Everybody does there tank different but I've noticed a major improvement.
     
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  10. Corailline

    Corailline Super Moderator

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    It is a dry heat, yeah right !
    I do think you can mess and manipulate colors, hence Zeovit. I also think some tanks are deficient in Potassium. Normal water changes should correct this issue unless you have a high demanding sps or zoanthid and in some cases corallmorphs ( mushrooms). But you will not know unless you test for sure and you should not supplement without a base line number. With all that said I do add 1 to 2 drops of Lugols to my tank per week but I know how toxic Iodine can be and more is never better. I believe Lugols provides more intense coloration in my tanks.

    It's been tempting to buy those Red Sea products. If I am going to do so I am going to also give Zeovit a go.
     
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  11. mdbostwick

    mdbostwick Vlamingii Tang

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    I will never supplement anything, without being able to test for it. That is just asking for trouble.

    At this point i am not interested in dosing any Red Sea product, didn't even know there was a Red Sea Color Kit. I was only interested in the testing for these elements at this point.
     
  12. RHorton

    RHorton Pajama Cardinal

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    Ive been using them now for about a month or more. Defiantly not snake oil. Trace elements are link to those 3 iodine, potassium and iron.
    When you use the red sea products it also replenishes the elements associated with it.
    When so many people buy corral excel or other similar products without testing or knowing what goes in the cap full you add,
    This approach lets you know exactly what goes in when your dosing for trace elements.

    is this for everyone? no you can achieve a successful reef tank just by doing water-changes and upkeep.
     
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