In a reef aquarium Calcium levels need to be maintained between 400 and 500mg/litre. The alkalinity (carbonate hardness) of the water should also be high, typically above 8 dKH. Keeping the calcium and alkalinity at these levels will significantly help coral growth and encourage the proliferation of pink, purple and red calcareous algae on the live rock. Calcium reactors operate passing water from the aquarium together with CO2 over a substrate that slowly dissolves aragonite causing calcium, magnesium and other trace elements required by reef inhabitants to be feed into the tank.
What to consider that selecting a new Calcium Reactor
The first thing to consider when buying a new Calcium reactor is the size of unit you require. The size of most Calcium reactors are described as the capacity of aquarium they will maintain, for example 600 litres. Pick a unit that is rated the same or slightly higher that your aquariums volume. If you intend to keep a large number of hard corals go for a higher rated unit. An electric pump drives the water flow through a calcium reactor, so you will need a spare power socket. You will also need a CO2 supply in the form of a pressurised container and regulator valve. The last consideration is where are you going to put it? What are the dimensions of your new unit and will it fit in your cabinet, or do you intend to position the unit slightly away from the aquarium? If you are new to calcium reactors Herts Aquatics supply complete kits that contain everything you need to install and maintain your new unit.
