Iron
PJS Element Pack Iron
5.00
Iron
Iron (Fe) atomic number 26, PJS considers it to be a Trace element as it plays a crucial role in the biological and metabolic process in corals and is used by all reef organisms and is measured by ppt in seawater. Iron belongs in the transition metal group, along with molybdenum, nickel, zinc, copper, manganese, cobalt and ALL are naturally found in seawater, maintaining proper Iron levels is important for biological processes, coral color, vitality and healthy coral growth, and supplementation will be necessary, especially in heavily stocked tanks.
Iron Key Roles
Photosynthesis / Zooxanthellae:
Utilized by enzymes that detoxify harmful oxygen radicals produced during photosynthesis for corals.
Utilized by zooxanthellae for photosynthesis to harvest the energy from light
Biological / Metabolism:
Iron is essential for metabolic processes and enzyme production. It is used by zooxanthellae in chlorophyl production for photosynthesis. Iron is required for conversion and production of nutrients and proteins to process for living things for growth , tissue repair, digestion, reproduction, respiration and must be maintained with all other within this group.
Iron is metabolized by corals and by all organisms in the entire ecosystem including denitrification and pigment production.
Enhanced Coral Coloration:
Iron promotes greens and yellows as well as enhancing vivid coloration and intensity of corals.
Aids in UV protection for corals and zooxanthellae.
Protection Against Parasites:
Iron supports the overall health, promoting resistance to parasites.
Iron Levels
Natural Seawater Levels:
Iron levels in natural seawater typically .003-.01 parts per trillion (ppt).
Target Aquarium Levels:
Many reef aquarists maintain iron levels within this natural range.
PJS recommends aim for a iron concentration of .01-.015 mg/L. This is a very small range!
Consumption Rate:
Fast.
Iron Testing
ALWAYS test iron levels in your reef aquarium before supplementing to determine if dosing is needed to avoid overdosing.
Testing:
Regularly test iron levels using a reliable test kit or by sending water samples for ICP testing
Iron Dosing
Start slowly by beginning with a low, gradual dose over days avoiding any sudden shifts in water chemistry and monitor the effects.
Methods:
Iron can be dosed via liquid additives.
Consider Advanced Methods:
Dosing stock solutions with pumps and continuous drip systems can be used to maintain precise iron levels.
Considerations
Avoid overdosing, as it can lead to imbalances and become toxic to corals and everything in your tank. Overdosing will cause corals to darken and algal blooms, including cyano outbreaks. Iron is essential for many metabolic processes and enzyme production. Iron is used by all living organisms, aiding in a balanced eco system. Iron is highly recommended for high PAR lighting. Manganese has high antioxidant properties helping corals resist stress from high temperatures. Iron is essential for macro algae growth , which outcompetes nuisance algae. Foods may contain levels of iron that can influence your parameters. Dosing iron, more is not the answer, time is the answer. Iron impacts and allows the consumption of nitrate and phosphate by corals and macroalgae’s. Dosing iron can influence consumption of nitrate and phosphate, taking them to zero and starving your coral. Deficiency will lead to reduced and improper growth, sensitivity to lights, imped the ability to produce or consume nutrients, impacting the symbiotic relationship of corals and zooxanthellae. Overdosing will lead to tissue damage, tissue detachment and coral bleaching.