Originally Posted by
Demosthine
Possible Solution:
I spoke in much more in detail with my guy at the LFS and he remembered I had purchased the Aragonite substrate. I didn’t realize it, but apparently the Aragonite breaks down and releases trace elements. As the tank was a fish only tank, the trace elements were not being consumed in adequate quantities. This resulted in excessively high concentrations of calcium and such, causing it to precipitate and fall to the bottom. With me adding the additional calcium, it made the situation much worse.
His recommended action is to do a 50% water change and replace the water with ocean water. This will help balance all of the elements from the start. He said to add a lawnmower blenny or equivalent to process the substrate and to add in corals that will consume these trace elements. Theoretically, based on the information he gave me, that will solve the problem. I’ll be heading down there right after work to pick up the blenny and a coral or two.
I’ve also restarted the scrubber, but at half-light. I’ll continue monitoring all of the levels and see where they go and how the tank recovers.
Thanks again for all of the help.
Scott