Silicon
PJS Silicon Element Pack
5.00
Silicon
Silicon (Si) atomic number 14, PJS considers it to be a MAJOR element as it plays a crucial role in the food chain for corals, is used by sponges and other reef organisms and is above 1ppm in seawater. In the industry it is considered a trace element, we need to fix that. Silicon belongs to the metalloid group and is naturally found in seawater. In reef aquariums, maintaining proper silicon levels is important for healthy coral growth, and supplementation may be necessary, especially in heavily stocked tanks.
Silicon Key Roles
Ecosystem Support:
Silicon promotes diatoms, which outcompete other algae’s, like dinoflagellates and provides a food source for filter feeders and the bottom of the food chain.
Biodiversity Density:
Silicon supports the food chain, allowing for a denser population and wider variety of species in the chain.
Nutrient Export:
Silicon promotes diatoms which consume nutrients and re-enter the food chain.
System Balance:
Silicon promotes diatoms which outcompete other algae’s and supports the base of the food chain.
Organism Dependent:
Silicon is a nutrient for reef inhabitants like diatoms, sponges, filter feeders, some soft corals and snails
Silicon Levels
Natural Seawater Levels:
Silicate levels in natural seawater typically are 2.2 parts per million (ppm).
Target Aquarium Levels:
Many reef aquarists aim to maintain silicate levels below this natural range. Targeting below 1mg/L.
PJS recommends aim for a silicate concentration of 1-2 mg/L. Depending on your livestock and as a tank ages the leaching of silicates declines.
Consumption Rate:
Fast.
Silicon Testing
ALWAYS test silicon levels in your reef aquarium before supplementing to determine if dosing is needed to avoid overdosing.
Testing:
Regularly test silicon levels using a reliable test kit or by sending water samples for ICP testing
Silicon Dosing
Start slowly by beginning with a low, gradual dose over days avoiding any sudden shifts in water chemistry and monitor the effects.
Methods:
Silicon can be dosed via liquid additives directly.
Consider Advanced Methods:
Dosing stock solutions with pumps and continuous drip systems can be used to maintain precise silicon levels.
Considerations
Ensure the supplement is reef-safe and follow dosing instructions. Avoid overdosing, as it can lead to imbalances and become toxic to corals and other invertebrates in your tank. Some other element, foods, supplies and additives may already contain silicon as a byproduct of process. While it's important to manage silicon levels, it's also important to remember that some silicon is needed for certain organisms. Leaching of new sand, rock, salt mix additives, and even tap water can introduce silicate into the system. Test and observe diatom growth. Adjust the dosage to maintain a target range (e.g., 0.1 - 2.0 ppm) RO/DI water, if it's not properly filtered can be a source of silica, this can influence your overall levels Silica solutions in concentration are caustic, so wear gloves and eye protection when handling them. Each reef tank is your work of art, and the ideal silica level can vary based on many factors, such as your coral type, coral density, and your water parameters and husbandry practices. Silicon is depleted from your water column through various processes, such as growth, skimmers, and other filtration methods. Diatoms, once established, export nutrients like nitrates and phosphates as they are consumed by other organisms or removed by filtering. New set ups and young tanks usually experience elevated silicon, they call this the ugly stage, new tank syndrome.