What to do about Nitrate and Phosphate

[reeffantic]

Now I am confused and do not know what to do. When I originally started this hobby, it was gravel bottom and lots of nitrates then came along DSB's and the nitrates went away. Now I hear they are nothing more than nutrient depots creating more problems (phosphate) than they are worth. If you go back to bare bottom, like some people are, than you have the nitrate and phosphate problem again. What's the answer? I figure you being the reef chemistry guru would have the answer.

What do I need to do keep both Nitrates and Phosphates are a bare minimum so I am not cleaning algae off my glass all the time? I realize there is no fool proof answer but, you must have some ideas. I am quite handy with my hands. What do I need to make?:rolleyes:

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Now I hear they are nothing more than nutrient depots creating more problems (phosphate) than they are worth.

That is a hypothesis that some folks hold. :D

If you go back to bare bottom, like some people are, than you have the nitrate and phosphate problem again. What's the answer?

There are lots of ways to reduce nitrate and phosphate. I prefer growing macroalgae, using skimming, and using carbon. There are other methods as well, and these are detailed in these articles:

Phosphorus: Algae’s Best Friend
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/sept2002/chem.htm

Iron Oxide Hydroxide (GFO) Phosphate Binders
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-11/rhf/index.htm


Nitrate in the Reef Aquarium
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/august2003/chem.htm