Melev's Reef Parameters

Test Type Recommended Parameters matching Natural Sea Water (NSW)
pH 7.9 to 8.3 - this varies from tank to tank; testing with a Pinpoint Meter is best
Temperature 78° F to 84° F - average reef temperature tends to be 81° F
Alkalinity 8 to 11 dKH -or-  2.86 to 3.89 meq/L
Calcium 390 to 450 ppm
Magnesium 1350 - 1400 ppm (or 3x Calcium levels)
Phosphate .03 ppm - leading cause of nuisance algae in your tank: click for article
Ammonia 0 - anything higher is toxic
Nitrite 0 - anything higher is toxic
Nitrate 10 ppm or less - huge water changes bring down nitrates: click for article

Readings from my 280g reef were taken at various times, and are documented here to allow you to see how the parameters vary over time.

2010

2009

2008

2007 - 2006

2005 - 2004

Previous Tank Parameters