API Calcium Test Kit

Calcium is one of the most important elements in a reef aquarium. Reef invertebrates such as corals, crustaceans, mollusks and even some types of encrusting algae need calcium to grow and remain healthy. Over time, calcium levels drop as invertebrates use calcium in aquarium water. This kit allows you to easily and accurately measure calcium levels and maintain a healthy reef aquarium. Measures calcium levels as low as 20mg/L. Uses titration method, with easy to see color change for precise measurement. For use in reef aquariums.

How to use the Kit?

Reef invertebrates such as corals, crustaceans, mollusks and even some types of encrusting algae need calcium to grow and remain healthy. Over time, calcium levels drop as invertebrates use calcium in aquarium water. This kit allows you to easily and accurately measure calcium levels and maintain a healthy reef aquarium. Measures calcium levels as low as 20 mg/L. Uses titration method, with easy to see color change for precise measurement. Kit Includes: 2 liquid dropper bottles with caps Easy to read instructions Glass test tube with cap.

Why test for Calcium?
Monitoring calcium levels is essential for keeping a successful reef aquarium. Reef organisms use calcium to build a calcium carbonate skeleton. Over time, as the calcium in the water is utilized, the calcium level will gradually drop. Calcium must be present for corals to grow. Even reef invertebrates such as crustaceans, mollusks and encrusting algae, require calcium to grow and remain healthy.

Calcium levels drop as it is used by invertebrates or as it reacts with excess phosphate. Making a partial water change may help to maintain proper calcium levels, depending on the brand of salt mix. Special calcuim additives are also available. Elevated phosphate precipitates calcium, rendering it unavailable to reef organisms. Phosphate enters the aquarium from tap water and as a byproduct of fish and invertebrate metabolism. Use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Phosphate Test Kit to test for phosphate. If necessary, use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Phos-Zorb to remove excess phosphate. Phos-Zorb is a special phosphate-removing filtration media that comes in a flow-through pouch. It conveniently fits into any filter.

Carbonate hardness (KH), often referred to as alkalinity, is important for reef organisms. As carbonate levels drop the pH becomes unstable. The carbonate hardness level (KH) should be 7-10 dKH [125- 179 mg/L (ppm)] to encourage growth in a reef aquarium and maintain pH. Use the Aquarium Pharmaceuticals KH Test Kit to measure the carbonate hardness. Add Proper pH 8.2 to increase carbonate hardness and stabilize the pH to 8.2.

Specifications

Testing Tips:
The Calcium Test Kit reads the calcium concentration in milligrams per liter (mg/L) which is equivalent to parts per million (ppm).

Directions:

• Read thoroughly before testing. Do not allow test solutions to get into aquarium.
• To remove childproof safety cap: With one hand, push red tab left with thumb while unscrewing cap with free hand.
  • Rinse a clean test tube with the water being tested.
  • Fill the test tube to the line with the water being tested.
  • Holding the bottle vertically, add 10 drops of Calcium Test Solution #1 to the test tube, cap and shake for 10 seconds.
  • Shake Calcium Test Solution #2 bottle vigorously for 10 seconds.
  • Holding the bottle vertically, add Calcium Test Solution #2, drop by drop to the test tube until the solution changes from pink to the blue end-point. Each drop is equivalent to 20 mg/L (ppm) calcium (Ca2 ). Cap and shake the test tube between drops. Be sure to count the drops added.
    • A pink color should form after the first drop.
    • If a blue color forms after the first drop, the calcium concentration is 20 mg/L (ppm) or below.
  • As the end-point is approached, the color will usually change from pink to purple before finally changing to blue. After the purple color forms, only one or two more drops should be required to reach the blue endpoint.