Calcium is a vital and essential element in the life of coral reef organisms, as the growth and development of corals and other invertebrates heavily depend on it. Marine organisms require calcium for the formation of skeletons, strengthening bones, and for parts of the cell wall.

The concentration of calcium in seawater is approximately 412 mg per liter. This amount decreases in coral ecosystems, especially in aquariums containing corals from the Scleractinia family, which includes calcium-based hard corals such as LPS and SPS, due to consumption and growth.

One of the critical parameters in a coral aquarium is maintaining and stabilizing the calcium level in the tank water. The less fluctuation in calcium levels we can achieve daily, the more growth and color we will observe in the corals.

The appropriate calcium level in a coral aquarium is between 410 to 460 mg per liter. However, an important aspect that directly affects coral growth and coloration is the stability of this level. For example, if a tank has a calcium level of 450 mg per liter, it is important to consistently maintain this level.

The Ocean Lab Calcium Test Kit allows you to read calcium levels with maximum accuracy and high resolution in the shortest possible time.

Using the unlabeled syringe provided, draw 2 cc of aquarium water and place it into the test vial. (For more tests, you can use 1 cc of water in the vial.)

Using the black-labeled syringe, add 0.5 cc of Solution A to the test vial and shake for 10 seconds. (If you used 1 cc of water in the first step, add 0.25 cc of Solution A.)

Using the small spoon, add one level scoop of Powder B to the solution. (If you used 1 cc of water in the first step, add half a scoop of Powder B.)

Using the white-labeled syringe, draw 1 cc of Solution C after attaching the nozzle. (There is no need to remove air bubbles from the syringe; the air volume is accounted for in the test calculations.)

Begin injecting slowly while gently swirling the test vial until the test solution changes from pink to blue. Then read the remaining solution in the syringe and refer to the numbers in the test kit table to determine the calcium level of your aquarium water. (If you used 1 cc of water in the first step, multiply the remaining amount in the syringe by 2, then refer to the table on the back page.)

If calcium levels are too high or too low, it can lead to precipitation and imbalance between carbonate and calcium, which can cause coral death and whitening. Therefore, knowing this unit is essential for aquarists to measure the desired calcium level and take action. If the calcium level in the aquarium water is low, DeepOcean Calcium Supplement (powder or liquid) can be used for optimal adjustment. If the calcium level is too high, siphoning part of the tank water with DeepOcean balancing salt can restore the calcium level to acceptable ranges.

a) After use, make sure to rinse the test vial with R/O or distilled water and allow it to dry. Due to the presence of calcium in city water and its drying residue on glass, it is preferable not to use it for rinsing.

b) Store the test kit out of reach of children and at room temperature.

c) In case of contact with skin or eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.

d) To extend the product’s lifespan, close the lid of each solution promptly after use.