API Calcium Test Kit

API Calcium Test Kit 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 the 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 the 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. 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 calcium additives are also available. Elevated phosphate precipitates calcium, rendering it unavailable to reef organisms. Phosphate enters the aquarium from tap water and is 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 the aquarium.
• To remove childproof safety cap: With one hand, push the red tab left with thumb while unscrewing the cap with freehand.
  • 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.
    • The 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.

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