High Nitrates

[eric-c]

I've just tested my water quality and found that my nitrate level is about 60ppm.

Last weekend I took my tank a part, removing the crushed coral and replacing it with live sand. I also added about 60lbs of live rock, as I'm changing from a fish only to reef. It's a 45gal tank and thru the process of setting it back up I’ve probably given it a 25-30% water change.

Any suggestions on how to lower the nitrate level?

 

[eric-c]

All my other levels are spot-on:

Phoshate 0ppm
Ammonia 0ppm
Nitrite 0ppm
KH 10dKH
pH 8.4

I guess I'll try another 10% water change and see if that does anything.

 

[Brad S]

I've just tested my water quality and found that my nitrate level is about 60ppm.

Last weekend I took my tank a part, removing the crushed coral and replacing it with live sand. I also added about 60lbs of live rock, as I'm changing from a fish only to reef. It's a 45gal tank and thru the process of setting it back up I’ve probably given it a 25-30% water change.

Any suggestions on how to lower the nitrate level?

Could have disturbed some anaerobic areas of your substrate. Maybe the tank is attempting to recycle? Either way 60ppm nitrate isn't a critical level, but to lower those levels you can change some water out, thats the easiest way for immediate results.

 

[eric-c]

If it's trying to recycle, should I leave it alone?

 

[Brad S]

If it's trying to recycle, should I leave it alone?

In my experience if you remove enough of your biological filtration (sand/rocks), you'll start seeing come nitrates as if the tank were cycling for the first time. In situations like that I've always watched nitrates and ammonia, never let them get too out of hand, and I've always been successful. At 60ppm, you might want to consider a water change soon, just don't let it get out of control. I'm sure people will post more advice shortly.

~Brad