Aquaforest Reef Mineral Salt 5000g
An agent for maintaining constant levels of minerals in reef aquariums
Using Reef Mineral Salt is one of the most important elements during supplementation of calcium chloride and sodium bicarbonate (i.e., Balling Method). Lack of Reef Mineral Salt supplementation leads to dangerous minerals deficiency. Long-term shortages of micro and macronutrients result in excessive slowdown of growth and pale, invalid coloration of corals.
Dosage
Dissolve 25 g in 1000 ml RODI water. In order to maintain ionic balance, it is recommended to also apply Calcium, KH Buffer, and Magnesium, with doses established based on water tests and daily coral consumption. Reef Mineral Salt can be combined in one solution with Magnesium. Solution of Reef Mineral Salt should be dosed with the same liquid amounts as Calcium and KH Buffer solutions.
Worth Knowing
Reef Mineral Salt dosing cannot replace important water changes, which are still necessary.
Aquaforest Reef Mineral Salt is a Sodium Chloride (NaCl free sea salt) salt. It contains all other basic components found in natural seawater, such as Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium, Bromine, Fluorine, Barium, Iodine, and trace elements.
NaCl free salt is a key component of the Balling method, playing a significant role when Calcium Chloride and Sodium Bicarbonate supplementation is in place.
It is a common misconception that NaCl free salt is primarily for replenishing trace elements. Its main task is to maintain the ionic balance of aquarium water.
This practice is based on Prof William Dittmar’s “rule of constant proportions,” which documented that the composition of natural seawater remains constant, even though salinity varies.
Importance of NaCl Free Salt with Calcium Chloride and Sodium Bicarbonate
Many marine organisms (e.g., hard corals) require Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) to grow calcareous structures. Since CaCO3 is insoluble in natural seawater, Ca++ and HCO3 are administered as water-soluble Calcium Chloride (CaCl2) and Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO3). This reaction produces unwanted NaCl:
CaCl2 + 2NaHCO3 → CaCO3 + 2NaCl + H2O + CO2
Although salinity may remain stable, excessive Sodium Chloride shifts the natural balance of major elements, which can negatively impact the closed aquarium ecosystem over time.
Regular water changes cannot fully reverse this build-up unless a 100% water change is performed, which is uncommon.
The use of NaCl free salt is less common today, with many opting for simplified Balling methods, but the original Balling method combined with regular NaCl free salt use is more effective at maintaining stable water parameters.
Balling two part or light methods are gaining popularity but may not prevent trace element deficiencies long-term.
