Barium

PJS Element Pack Barium

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Barium

Barium (Ba) atomic number 56, PJS considers it to be a Minor element as it plays a crucial role in the biological processes of corals, is used by other reef organisms and is below 1ppm in seawater. In the industry it is considered a trace element, we need to fix that. Barium belongs to the alkaline earth metal group and is naturally found in seawater. In reef aquariums barium must be maintained at proper levels it is critical for healthy coral. Barium is slowly used in all process in the reef tank. Supplementation will be necessary, especially in heavily SPS stocked tanks.

Barium Key Roles

Biological Processes:
Barium is used by everything for many metabolic processes, its presence is essential.

Enhanced Coral Coloration:
Only by it contribution to the overall level of health helping it look the best.

Protection Against Parasites:
Strong calcification

Skeletal Structure:
Barium is critical in the calcification process for proper coral skeletal formation and growth. Barium is essential SPS coral health and growth.

Barium Levels

Natural Seawater Levels:
Barium levels in natural seawater are typically .021 parts per million (ppm).

Target Aquarium Levels:
Many reef aquarists aim to maintain barium at natural seawater levels. PJS recommends aim for barium concentration of .02-.025 mg/L.

Consumption Rate:
Slow

Barium Testing

ALWAYS test barium levels in your reef aquarium before supplementing to determine if dosing is needed to avoid overdosing.

Testing:
Regularly test barium levels using a reliable test kit or by sending water samples for ICP testing

Barium Dosing

Start slowly by beginning with a low, gradual dose over many days avoiding any sudden shifts in water chemistry and monitor the effects.

Methods:
Barium can be dosed via liquid additives.

Consider Advanced Methods:
Dosing stock solutions with pumps and continuous drip systems can be used to maintain precise barium levels.

Considerations

Overdosing Barium can become toxic to reef inhabitants. Overdosing barium can lead to cloudy water and precipitation of elements. Barium works with potassium, calcium and strontium, make sure to monitor them all. The stability of barium is dependent on the stability of other elements, as everything seems to effect it stability. If calcium and strontium are being heavily consumed, barium will also be more consumed. Barium is consumed by everything, usually at a slow steady rate. Barium can be introduced with activated carbon and some phosphate removers. I believe barium and bromine work together in the proper formation of aragonite, good growth when right.