Maintaining calcium in small tanks

[xterrab]

I've got a 10 gallon tank with a few soft corals and LPS, but my calcium levels keep dropping fast. I'm dosing manually but it's a hassle. Anyone got tips for keeping it stable without daily dosing?

[deepstar1]

Small tanks are tricky since params swing faster. What's your alk at? If it's low, calcium won't stay put. I'd test alk first, then maybe switch to a two-part doser. I use the BRS ones on my 15 gallon, keeps things steady for weeks.

[daxilix]

yo, i just throw in some crushed coral in the filter. seems to work, but my tank's only 5 gallons. dunno if it'll cut it for you.

[folksy9]

yo, i just throw in some crushed coral in the filter. seems to work, but my tank's only 5 gallons. dunno if it'll cut it for you.

Crushed coral's a decent idea, but it's slow. If you're dosing already, maybe try a kalkwasser stirrer. Heard those are solid for small setups.

[bronzeoak]

I had the same issue in my 12 gallon. Switched to a nano calcium reactor and it's been smooth sailing. Pricey upfront, but worth it if you're serious about keeping LPS.

[Trims]

how often you testing? my 10 gallon's chill with weekly water changes, no extra dosing. maybe your salt mix is low on calcium?

[ottero]

how often you testing? my 10 gallon's chill with weekly water changes, no extra dosing. maybe your salt mix is low on calcium?

Good point. I use Red Sea Coral Pro, and it's packed with calcium. Maybe switch salts if you're using something basic.

[xterrab]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll test my alk and look into a two-part doser or kalkwasser. Appreciate the help!

[xterrab]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll test my alk and look into a two-part doser or kalkwasser. Appreciate the help!

[deepstar1]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll test my alk and look into a two-part doser or kalkwasser. Appreciate the help!

No problem. Let us know how it goes. Also, check your magnesium levels—low mag can mess with calcium uptake too.