sorry for the new thread . . . but i'm in deep . .

[knutcracker1]

well, i'm the same guy with 600ppm calcium (hagan test kit . . . i know) and 6.5 dKh carbonate hardness (thread: help with high calcium level) and a dying florescent open brain (thread: long time stalker, 1st time poster).

i was asked about tissue recession of the OB, now i know for sure it is receding. i added some Kent pH buffer with kH builder last nite in response to high calcium, and today the OB is falling apart.

test came out to 11dKH today.

it always had brown algae slowly attaching to the teeths on the rim.

anything suggestions please!? am I heading for a huge heartache?

here are my specs:

26 gal
two 55W PC's (actinic and full range)
bakpak with skimmer
small Eheim
Hagan 301 powerhead
crushed argonite substrate
lots of LR

pH: 8.0-8.2
calcium: 600 ppm
hardness: 11 dkH
temp: 82
ammonia: .25-.5 mg/L
nitrite: 0
nitrate: 5 mg/L


i know the last 3 levels should be zero, but they have never given me trouble in these ranges and i have been experiencing decent growth.

[tendar]

HOw much alk booster did you add? sounds like you add to much at one time to raise if from 6.5 to 11 over night. Always do every thing gradually.
I have lost GOB before for no reason that I could understand. I would consider removing the crushed coral and going with either a 1/2" of fine sand or if there is hieght in the tank then for 4" depth of fine sand. THis will help you perameters stay closer in check.
Over all your system sounds good. I would maybe try and lower your temp to 79-80 if possible.
Once a open brain starts going it is usally to late to do to much about. Put it in a low flow area and if it is deteriorating fast I would remove it.
A couple of small 3-4 gall water changes like every other day should help with calcium getting back under control and may help you brain.

[scubadude]

HOw much alk booster did you add? sounds like you add to much at one time to raise if from 6.5 to 11 over night. Always do every thing gradually.
.............Over all your system sounds good. I would maybe try and lower your temp to 79-80 if possible.
Once a open brain starts going it is usally to late to do to much about. Put it in a low flow area and if it is deteriorating fast I would remove it.
A couple of small 3-4 gall water changes like every other day should help with calcium getting back under control and may help you brain.

Very well said by Tendar IME....I just wanted you to know that I concur with his thoughts as well

[knutcracker1]

a lot for the suggestions!