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Boron and Coral Health: Effects on Colouration and Growth in Aquariums

Boron is an important micronutrient that is essential for the growth and health of many marine organisms, including corals. However, too much or too little Boron can have adverse effects on coral health and colouration.

Boron and Coral Health

Boron is a relatively rare element in the Earth's crust, and at atomic number 5, is one of the lightest. Some of its compounds, such as Pentaborane (9), are some of the most unstable and toxic compounds known. Nonetheless, Corals use many Boron compounds to facilitate the growth of their Calcium Carbonate skeletons. Boron is also important for the regulation of pH in seawater, which affects the ability of corals to build and maintain their skeletons. In addition, Boron is involved in several metabolic processes, including photosynthesis and respiration.

When Boron levels are too low, corals may not be able to build and maintain their skeletons, which can lead to skeletal deformities and reduced growth rates. In addition, low Boron levels can lead to reduced photosynthesis and respiration rates, which can negatively impact the overall health of corals.

On the other hand, high levels of Boron can also be harmful to corals.

Excess Boron can lead to a decrease in calcification rates and cause coral skeletons to become more brittle and prone to breakage. This is largely due to its interference with Calcium and Magnesium uptake, two of the three reef foundations.

Boron and Coral Colours

In terms of coloration, Boron can have both positive and negative effects on coral pigments. Studies have shown that low Boron levels can lead to coral bleaching, that is, pale reduced colour in corals. However, excessive Boron levels can also lead to reduced pigmentation, as well as changes in the type of pigments produced by the corals. This can result in a shift in the colour of the corals, ruining the colour of rarer coral varieties especially.

Testing For and Maintaining Boron Levels

Keeping the proper levels of Boron is crucial for the wellbeing and colour of aquarium corals. Testing is best achieved through the use of ICP tests such as those offered by Triton. Adjustments can be made using reagents, though regular water changes and a good quality salt mixture will go a long way to maintaining correct Boron concentrations in marine aquariums; which should normally be between 4-6 mg/L. In order to make sure that corals are receiving the right quantity of this element, it is crucial to evaluate Boron levels frequently and make adjustments as necessary.

It is always important however to always monitor the reef foundations of Calcium, Magnesium, and Alkalinity, in addition to monitoring Boron levels.

Conclusion

Boron can be daunting, but never has to be Boring, or scary. It's better to know exactly where your tank parameters are so you can create the most vibrant home reef possible.