Trace Elements

[MikeS]

I read in one of the other threads, response by Sculpin, that trace elements are bad. Tell me more. This is the first time I've heard this.

[asmith]

Trace elements are not always bad. I don't add them and don't want to. You can easily replenish all of the trace elements needed in your tank just by doing regular water changes. They are also added to your tank when you feed. IT is possible for your tank to have too much of any number of trace elements which could lead to problems.

Andrew

[FishDaddy]

Mike,
As Andrew mentioned, the Trace Element Debate is ongoing and results are inconclusive, as far as I can tell. This debate centers around 3 principal issues:
1) Are supplemental additions necessary at all with a good salt mix? There is some subjective info that suggests yes; some suggests no.
2) No one knows for sure what the correct dosage should be, if at all. Hobby test kits are not accurate enough to tell if you have the correct level even if you know what it is.
3) Too much of almost any of these elements can be harmful not only to corals but fish and inverts.

I do think it unwise to begin adding trace element solutions or any other additives to a new setup. Water changes; Kalkwasser/and/or/B-Ionic or other 2-part Ca supplement; food (with vitamin supplement such as Selcon) should provide all your tank needs. While the tank is maturing and in the early stages, the number of corals should be relatively low and the corals normally on the small side.
Once a tank has matured and has a good population of corals, the reefer, having read all the "expert's opinions" can then make up his/her own mind.
Dick

[MontanaRocknReefer]

As stated above, I do not put trace elements in my reef tank. I just do the water change and I have only 3 corals at present in my 11 month old reef.
Once my tank is a year old or more I will add more corals slowly and things should just be fine. Johnny

[Doug1]

I find people fall into one of two camps re: trace elements, they either dont or do. Personally except for calcium/alk supplements i dont add any, but do regular water changes. A lot of people have great success following the previous advice without spending the $$$$$$$$$ on spendy additives

[ThePhantom]

hmm if i get the discussion above rite .... u guys don't even dose stroniun and iodine .. just asking cuased many sites and hobbist sites have recommended or used this method ??? ... some clarity from anyone ?

[cwa46]

Your right! Nothing except calcium and alkalinity additions. In my case a calcium reactor. By the way, I still have some very large bottles of almost any trace element you might want. You live and learn.