The Problem With 2-Part Solution & Trace ElementsĪquarists add the two-part solution on a daily basis to replenish what corals consume. In most cases, there is also a magnesium component in the mix which is either integrated into one of the 2-part solutions or delivered as a separate solution. The traditional two-part is a calcium chloride solution and a sodium carbonate solution designed to provide calcium and carbonates (alkalinity) for corals. In the process, magnesium is also used by the coral which aids in the formation of this stony skeletal structure and helps prevent the precipitation of calcium and carbonates that are in the water. At the most basic level, corals uptake calcium and carbonates from the seawater to form calcium carbonate which is then deposited internally to build a stony internal structure (coral skeleton). It is best to start with a simplified explanation of the most abundant ions corals uptake from the aquarium water.
In order to be successful, it is important to understand the different approaches so you can select the right solution for your particular tank. While there are a variety of additives and methods for maintaining major, minor, and trace elements in the aquarium water, the term "2-part dosing" is sometimes used interchangeably between the various methods. As corals grow, they uptake various elements from the water so you must replenish them to ensure corals always have what they need available and the water chemistry remains stable. Corals have evolved to use those elements for their own growth and metabolic processes. In a reef tank, the very first and most critical additives you will need are going to be for the purpose of maintaining your aquarium's major, minor, and trace elements. The need for additives can vary from sustaining water chemistry and stabilizing bacteria to adding nutrients and conditioning the water. Why Do I Need Additives?įor the most part, additives are liquid solutions intended for direct addition to aquarium water. The good news is that finding exactly what you do need really is not all that difficult as long as you stick to the proven methods. There are hundreds of different additives, some of which do the very same thing and many of which you just don't need. If left to your own devices, exploring reef tank additives can certainly drive you bonkers and actually raise more questions than answers.