P04 : Phosphate Test
Manufactured by Salifert
Phosphate has several negative effects if present in high concentrations. Undesirable algae growth might result, making an aquarium an unpleasant sight.
Phosphate also blocks or retards the growth of corals and calcareous algae. Scientific studies show that a phosphate concentration higher than 0.05 mg/L decreases the growth of calcareous algae by 90%!
Washing fish food, which is a rich source for phosphates, in a sieve after thawing reduces the input of phosphate tremendously. Also avoiding use of phosphate-rich low-grade activated carbon helps keep phosphate levels as low as possible. Checking the activated carbon for elevated levels of phosphate prior to use is highly recommended.
Elevated concentrations of phosphate can be removed by using various means. Three products carried by Quality Marine are Elimi-Phos by Tropic Marin, RowaPhos by Rowa, and Phosban by Two Little Fishies.
Since phosphate can have major consequences when present in a concentration above 0.05 mg/L a test kit should be able to detect even lower concentrations. Quality Marine carries and recommends the Merck test kit formulated for high-precision, low range Phosphate testing.