Both fish waste and feeding are possible causes for phosphate introduction into the water. A part is taken up as a nutrient by plants, an excess, however, provides nutrition for unwanted algae.

The sera PO4-Test quickly and easily provides an overview of current phosphate levels.

To reduce phosphates try using Sera Phosvec.

Freshwater:

Phosphate (PO4) is present in every aquarium, even though many aquarium owners aren't aware that it is there. If the aquarium is not properly maintained, the phosphate levels will continually rise and contribute to algae growth. Testing for phosphate and learning about the sources of phosphate in your aquarium water will help you combat their effects.

Phosphate naturally increases as wastes are broken down within the aquarium. In addition to being internally produced, phosphate can enter the aquarium from external sources. Everything from fish food to the chemicals used to buffer the water to the tap water itself can contain significant amounts of phosphate.

When test results show levels of 1.0 ppm (mg/L) or higher, the conditions become favorable for algae growth. At 2 to 3 ppm, algae overgrowth is likely to occur. Ideal phosphate levels are 0.5 ppm or less.

Marine: Phosphates are a primary nutrient source for many forms of algae, particularly green hair species, so when high concentrations are allowed to accumulate in an aquarium, it opens the door for aggressive algae blooms to occur. Phosphates promote the proliferation of brown algae in the tissue of corals, masking the natural color pigments of the corals and causing the coral to turn brown. It also restricts the calcium carbonate uptake necessary to enable the coral skeleton to grow. The optimal phosphate level, especially for reef tanks, is an immeasurable one, or zero, with 0.05 ppm-mg/l being acceptable.

Sufficient for approx. 60 measurements.