Tropic Marin PO4 Test Freshwater / Saltwater

For determining phosphate concentration Phosphates (PO43–) are important nutrients for all plants and are vital for the energy metabolism of every living cell. Phosphate...

For determining the phosphate concentration

Phosphates (PO43–) are important nutrients for all plants and are vital for the energy metabolism of every living cell. Phosphates enter the aquarium water via food and the decomposition process of organic material. However, an unregulated increase in the phosphate concentration causes problems, such as significant algae growth. In addition, phosphates in saltwater aquariums can seriously impede the deposition of calcium carbonate in the skeleton formation process of hard corals and in turn their growth. On the other hand, a phosphate deficiency can occur if there is a high supply of plants and/ or corals and a low fish population. In this situation phosphate should be added.

The phosphate concentration in natural saltwater is about 0.06 mg/l (ppm). However, the phosphate concentration in coral reefs can be much lower, usually between 0.01 and 0.02 mg/l (ppm). The goal is to achieve a ​to determine an appropriate level in relation to the number and type of aquarium inhabitants. For freshwater applications, a phosphate concentration of up to 0.4 mg/l (ppm) is suitable; however, 1 mg/l (ppm) should not be exceeded. Even a concentration of 0. 02 mg/l (ppm) is sufficient to provide aquatic plants with nutrients. Therefore, the phosphate concentration in the aquarium water should be tested regularly.

The Tropic Marin® PO4 Test determines phosphate levels using a precisely tuned color chart with a concentration range of 0.03 - 3 ppm.