Seachem Reef Buffer 500 g / 1.1 lbs

Description

Description

Reef Buffer” will also raise carbonate alkalinity; however, it is intendedprimarily for use as a buffer in a reef system where the maintenance of a pH of8.3 is often difficult. When pH is not an issue, Reef Builder” or ReefCarbonate” should be your first choice for a carbonate alkalinity supplement.
Reef Buffer” is specifically designed to meet the needs and requirements of theclosed reef environment. The principal difference between Reef Buffer” andMarine Buffer” is that the pK of Reef Buffer” is slightly higher than that ofMarine Buffer”. The pK of a buffering agent is equivalent to the pH around whichthat buffer most strongly buffers. One would presume, then, that the pK of asaltwater buffer should be 8.3; however, the multitude of organic acids producedby the inhabitants of a reef system forces pH downward to a much greater degreethan in a non-reef, marine system. A buffer with a pK of 8.3 would end upyielding a pH more in the range of 8.0-8.2. Reef Buffer’s ” higher pK (8.6)allows for greater pH stability in a reef system where the bioload issignificantly more than in a fish only system.

Why It’s Different
Competing products are not designed specifically for the reef environment; thepK is too low (in most cases, pK 8.3). At this pK, the proper pH can never bereached in saltwater. Reef Buffer’s” higher pK (8.6) allows for greater pHstability in a reef system where the bioload is significantly more than in afish only system.

Directions
Check pH and alkalinity before use. Use 5 g (1 level teaspoon) for every 150 L(40 gallons) to raise pH by about 0.1 pH units (this will also raise alkalinityby about 0.5 meq/L). Dissolve in at least one cup of freshwater, then add to thetank. The pH of natural sea water is 8.25—8.30. In a well established reefsystem pH adjustment may be necessary biweekly to semiweekly. Dosingrequirements will vary, but do not exceed the recommended dose without checkingyour pH and alkalinity (alkalinity should not exceed 6 meq/L). If an alkalinityof 6 meq/L has been reached and a pH of at least 8.20 has not been attained orsubstantial cloudiness that does not clear within 15 minutes is encountered,then the system is not ionically balanced. To restore ionic balance perform awater change or adjust the magnesium and calcium levels to approximately 3:1Mg:Ca (calcium does not need to exceed 400 mg/L).

DO NOT OVERDOSE: Excess alkalinity may enhance the loss of calcium, magnesium,and strontium. Do not directly mix with any calcium, magnesium, or strontiumsupplement.