Here's How to Use a Calcium Reactor in Your Saltwater Reef Tank
Maintaining a thriving reef aquarium is a rewarding yet complex endeavour, requiring a keen understanding of the delicate balance within your marine ecosystem. One of the most critical aspects of ensuring the health and growth of your corals involves the management of calcium and alkalinity levels. Here, we introduce the calcium reactor, a sophisticated tool designed to simplify this aspect of reef keeping.
Introduction to Calcium Reactors
A calcium reactor is an advanced piece of equipment that dissolves aragonite-based media within a chamber, releasing calcium and carbonate ions into the aquarium water. This process closely mimics the natural conditions of coral reefs, providing a continuous supply of the essential minerals that corals need to thrive.
Why Use a Calcium Reactor?
• Stability: Provides consistent levels of calcium and alkalinity, crucial for the health of corals and other invertebrates.
• Efficiency: Automates the supplementation process, reducing the need for frequent manual dosing.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Over time, a calcium reactor can be more economical than buying and dosing liquid supplements.
Setting Up a Calcium Reactor
Choosing the Right Reactor
Select a reactor that matches the size and demand of your aquarium. Consider factors such as the total water volume, the amount of coral, and the reactor’s capacity to adjust flow and dissolution rates.
Installation Essentials
• Positioning: Typically installed in the sump, ensure it is easily accessible for maintenance and adjustments.
• CO2 System: A CO2 cylinder and regulator are essential to lower the pH within the reactor, dissolving the media and releasing calcium and bicarbonates.
• pH Controller: Monitors and adjusts the CO2 supply to maintain the desired pH level inside the reactor, optimising the dissolution rate.
Operating and Maintaining Your Calcium Reactor
How Calcium Reactors Are Run
Calcium reactors can be operated using different methods to deliver the water through the reactor, including gravity drip feed, peristaltic pumps, or by being teed off the main return pump. The chosen method will depend on your setup preferences and the specific requirements of your aquarium.
• Gravity Drip Feed: Utilises the force of gravity to move water through the reactor.
• Peristaltic Pump: Offers precise control over the flow rate through the reactor.
• Tee’d Off the Main Return: Uses a portion of the main return pump’s flow to pass water through the reactor.
Starting Drip Rate
• CO2 Drip Rate: A good starting point is 1 bubble per second.
• Water Drip Rate: Start with a drip rate of 1 drip per second.
Adjust these rates accordingly based on the calcium and alkalinity demand of your aquarium, regularly testing to ensure optimal levels.
Initial Adjustment
Finding the right balance of CO2, water flow, and media dissolution rate might require some experimentation. Start with lower CO2 rates and gradually adjust until you reach the desired calcium and alkalinity levels in your aquarium.
Regular Maintenance
• Media Replacement: Over time, the reactor media will dissolve completely. Regular checks will help you determine when it’s time for a refill.
• Cleaning: Periodically, the reactor and its components should be cleaned to prevent blockages and ensure efficient operation.
Common Questions About Calcium Reactors
How often should I check the performance of my calcium reactor?
Regular monitoring of your aquarium’s calcium and alkalinity levels is crucial. Weekly tests can help you adjust the reactor settings as needed to maintain optimal levels.
Can a calcium reactor cause pH fluctuations in my aquarium?
While the addition of CO2 can lower pH, proper adjustment of the reactor and good aeration in the sump can mitigate significant fluctuations. It’s essential to monitor pH levels closely, especially during the initial setup phase.
Conclusion
Incorporating a calcium reactor into your reef aquarium setup can significantly enhance the stability and health of your marine ecosystem. By providing a consistent supply of calcium and bicarbonates, a calcium reactor not only supports coral growth but also simplifies the management of water chemistry. With careful selection, setup, and maintenance, your calcium reactor will become an indispensable part of your reef keeping success.
