		Reducing Phosphate Levels in Reef Aquariums using Phosphate Binding Media	easy reefer > learning center
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Reducing Phosphate Levels in Reef Aquariums using Phosphate Binding Media

Phosphate Binding Media

Phosphate binding media have become very popular in not only the keepings of SPS dominate reef tanks but all reef aquariums in general. Phosphate binding media such as those based on granular ferric oxide (GFO) or alumina oxide (AO) are typically employed in fluidized media reactors to provide maximum efficiency of the media. These types of media are capable of adsorbing not only large quantities of organic and inorganic phosphate but arsenic and silicates as well. When these materials are exhausted they will not release the bound compounds back into the reef aquarium water.

Phosban Reactors at Drs Foster and Smith
$31.49

In the reef aquarium phosphate is the byproduct of the decomposition of organic substances such as excess food, dead plant matter, and detritus from the tank inhabitants or other dead animals. Elevated concentrations of phosphate leads to the growth of various nuisance algae and will inhibit the growth in acropora, montipora, and other species of stony corals as well as calcareous algae. High concentrations of phosphate will also darken SPS corals causing them to “brown out”.

Phosphate levels in a reef aquarium can be maintained a levels at of very close to zero by using GFO’s or AO’s. These phosphate absorbents can last for up to several months before having to be replaced though it would be a wise idea to use less then the recommended amount and replace the media more frequently. There is a risk of reducing phosphate levels too quickly in SPS dominated reef tanks. Some aquarists have speculated that such practices have been the cause of rapid tissue necrosis (RTN) or slow tissue necrosis (STN).

The use of phosphate binding media is best applied when initially setting up a new aquarium. This will ensure that the phosphate will be eliminated before it is allowed to reach high concentrations. The continued controlled use of these phosphate binding medias will help prevent the growth of nuisance algae as well as providing a low nutrient environment which allows for maximum growth and will help hard and soft corals exhibit their brightest colors.


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