Maintaining a thriving reef aquarium requires consistent care and attention to detail. This comprehensive guide covers essential maintenance procedures for long-term success.
Daily Tasks:
– Parameter monitoring (temperature, salinity, pH)
– Equipment checks (pumps, skimmer, heaters)
– Feeding schedule management
– Visual inspection for issues
– Top-off water addition
Weekly Procedures:
– Water parameter testing (calcium, alkalinity, magnesium)
– Protein skimmer cleaning
– Filter sock replacement
– Glass cleaning
– Water changes (10-20%)
Monthly Maintenance:
– Deep substrate cleaning
– Equipment thorough cleaning
– Carbon media replacement
– Coral fragging/pruning
– Filter maintenance
Water Chemistry:
– Calcium: 400-450 ppm
– Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
– Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
– Phosphate: <0.03 ppm
- Nitrate: <5 ppm
Coral Care:
- Target feeding techniques
- Growth monitoring
- Placement adjustment
- Light acclimation
- Flow requirements
Regular maintenance ensures stable parameters and healthy coral growth. Establish a consistent schedule and keep detailed records of all maintenance activities and parameter measurements.