Mastering Alkalinity Stability: The #1 Key to Coral Growth

Alkalinity stability is more important than hitting a specific number. A tank stable at 7.5 dKH will outperform one swinging between 8 and 10 dKH.\n\nMeasurement methods:\n- Hanna dKH Checker: Digital, accurate, easy ($50)\n- Red Sea Alkalinity Pro: Titration test, very precise\n- Salifert: Budget-friendly, reliable\n- Neptune Trident: Automated testing 4x daily ($600)\n\nDosing for stability:\n1. Test alkalinity at the same time daily for 1 week\n2. Calculate daily consumption (dKH drop × tank volume)\n3. Set dosing pump to replace exactly what is consumed\n4. Split total dose into 4-6 additions throughout the day\n5. Re-test weekly and adjust as coral growth changes consumption\n\nTroubleshooting:\n- Alkalinity dropping fast: Coral growth, coralline algae, or CO2 scrubber issues\n- Alkalinity rising: Overdosing, water changes with high-alk salt mix\n- Alkalinity and calcium both low: Check magnesium (must be 1300+ for proper balance)\n- White precipitate: Alk and calcium dosed too close together, or mixed in sump