Test Kits

[Misskiwi67]

Hello,

I don't have the cash at the moment to get the lighting and CO2 for my little tank, but I thought I should at least get some test kits so I can find out where exactly I stand as far as nutrients and water quality. I'm getting pinholes in my crypts, and other plants seem to suck nutrients from their old leaves to make new ones... I never even noticed until I read the pinned articles, and now it bothers me so I want to fix it.

I want to get the test kits and start learning to add nutrients to fill the deficiencies, and see if I can still keep the algae under control (I have practically none at the moment) and hopefully this little project will help me learn so I don't completely ruin everything when I do get the CO2 and lights I want...

SO whats the list? Essential test kits, and nutrient supplements you recommend!!!!

 

[Angry_Platy]

Test kits you want for a planted tank :

GH/KH (these come together)
pH
nitrate
phosphate

Others you should have as well:

ammonia
nitrite

You can get tests for iron, calcium,etc. But you will see deficiency symptoms in your plants if theses are lacking.

Brand depends on the actual test....i.e. I prefer Hagen for ammo, nitrite, KH, pH and phosphate
I prefer Aquarium Pharmaceuticals for nitrate (I hate differentiating between shades of pink)

It is good you are getting it sorted now though you won't be able to really tell what real deficiencies you have until you add CO2 and lights and yur plants grow exponentially!!

 

[Bloo]

Personally I prefer the liquid tests from (API) Aquarium Pharmaceuticals for all those tests. I've used Hagen and Tetra (and one other brand I can't remember) but prefer API for value for money, results, ease of use and well just value for money again

But saying that, I have the "Salifert" Phosphate test kit and for some reason didn't get the API one. Can't say I like the Salifert one as it seems far too vague and only measures 0 - 3 ppm (0 - 0.03 - 0.1 - 0.25 - 0.5 - 1 - 3) whereas API says it does up to 10 ppm. Which reminds me to get ana API one B)