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.

2008

2007 - 2006

2005 - 2004

Previous Tank Parameters