Phosban & Chaeto compatibility

[Otakuthugster]

So I just recently jumped onto the phosphate removal bandwagon. However, I could of sworn I saw an article stating that phosphate is the limiting nutrient for macroalgae growth. So, if I'm primarily concerned with using chaeto for nutrient export, then will the chaeto still be able to uptake other nutrients (mainly nitrates) if it has no phosphate to grow off?

 

[tuberider]

There will always be phosphate in trace amounts waiting to be adsorbed by the GFO, it will slow down the growth but not stop it. Also, if your chaeto is not growing there's a good chance your coral wont be growing either.

 

[Otakuthugster]

Also, if your chaeto is not growing there's a good chance your coral wont be growing either.

Why's that?

I'm confused now 'cause I thought corals don't like phosphates and nitrates.

 

[tuberider]

The zoax needs food too, if your tank becomes nutrient poor then not only will your corals have no ability to sustain its zoax, they will bleach very easily.

 

[A_Lee]

I don't think corals like "high" amounts of phosphates, or nitrates. IIRC, high phosphate levels act as a poison, and inhibit calcification. Also, you don't ever want your nitrates, or phosphates to be truly at zero because corals need both -in relatively trace amounts at that; after all there is symbiotic alga inside of most of our corals

 

[Otakuthugster]

Ok, now I understand. Thanks, guys