starting a coral tank

eWarren · #1 12-24-2007, 05:17 AM

I have a 75g fish tank for a year and a bit more. Recently I am trying to do coral. So, I divide one third of my 75g into a reef tank. I am not sure what's missing in my tank, but some clove polyps I bought from J&L which used to regularly open and close their "hands" when they were in shop does not do it anymore after came into my tank. And I also seems have trouble to bring my calcium level to 450. Currently, my ca reading is around 350 to 390. Mg is about 1100. Use Instant Ocean's salt mix. Kent turbo ca. Alkalinity is about 9.8 dKH. Any one can give me sme himt?

Thank you.

vazgor · #2 12-24-2007, 05:40 AM

what kinda light are you useing and what is your ph do you have live rock could be lots o chit

eWarren · #3 12-24-2007, 05:45 AM

I use corallife 4x65w pc light. Not sure about the ph, I havn't measure it for long long time. I have about 50 - 65 lb of live rock and what do you mean by lots of chit?

Canuckgod420 · #4 12-24-2007, 05:48 AM

How do you divide a 75g tank into 1/3 reef tank?
I dont think you bought clove polyps, if they pulsed in store it is most likey pulsing xenia, and they like fairly strong light and medium flow.

eWarren · #5 12-24-2007, 05:55 AM

Yes, you are right. I think I got xenia. So, do you think its the light issue? I do have good wwater flow.

mark · #6 12-24-2007, 06:34 AM

Read and found myself Ca is held back by Mg. Likes a 3:1 ratio so try raising your Mg to NSW (~1280ppm) for a higher Ca.

To get the Xenia pulsing can be hit and miss but they do seem to like a higher pH to pulse (8.3).

eWarren · #7 12-24-2007, 07:04 AM

If finally I get my water to the "ideal reading" again, will my Xenia pulsing again?