API Phosphate Test Kit

Accurate individual test kit simplifies the testing of phosphate. Convenient two-part liquid test makes measuring and monitoring phosphate levels fast and easy. In high concentrations, phosphate often encourages the growth of aggressive nuisance algae and may precipitate dissolved calcium and magnesium ions in saltwater aquariums. API Phosphate Test Kit reads 0-10 ppm total phosphate. Use in marine, reef, or freshwater aquariums.

Please click on "More Information" for directions and frequently asked questions.

STEP 1
Fill the test tube with 5 ml of water to be tested (to the line on the tube).

STEP 2
Add 6 drops from Phosphate Test Solution Bottle #1 to the test tube. Hold the dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position for uniform drops.

STEP 3
Cap and shake the test tube vigorously for 5 seconds.

STEP 4
Add 6 drops from Phosphate Test Solution Bottle #2. Cap and shake the test tube vigorously for 5 seconds.

STEP 5
Wait 3 minutes for full color to develop. After 3 minutes, read the test results by matching the test solution against the appropriate Phosphate Test Color Chart. The tube should be viewed against the white area beside the color chart. Color comparisons are best made in a well-lit area. The closest match indicates the ppm (mg/L) of total phosphate (PO3-4) in the water sample.

Rinse the test tube with clean water after each use.

FAQ's about Phosphate

What is phosphate?
Phosphorous is an essential element for plants and animals. Phosphorus, measured as phosphate (PO3-4), enters the aquarium from fish and invertebrate waste and decaying organic matter, such as dead algae and uneaten fish food. Water treatment facilities may add phosphate to tap water to prevent pipe corrosion and reduce concentrations of heavy metals in drinking water.

What level of phosphate is safe?
While phosphate is not harmful to fish, the phosphate level should be zero in saltwater aquariums and freshwater aquariums, including those containing live plants. The phosphate level in a new aquarium will depend on the purity of the water used to fill the aquarium. The phosphate level in tap water can vary daily depending on the treatment process used. Phosphate tends to accumulate in established aquariums.

Why test for phosphate?
While phosphate is required by fish and plants, too much phosphate can lead to cloudy water conditions. In saltwater aquariums, phosphate precipitates dissolved calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) ions, inhibiting the growth of hard corals and other reef-building organisms.

I have a high phosphate level. What should I do?
In a freshwater or saltwater aquarium use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Phos-Zorb (item #111334). Phos-Zorb is a filtration material that removes phosphate. Making partial water changes can also help reduce the nitrate level, especially if the initial phosphate level is very high. However, because many tap water supplies contain phosphate, it can be difficult to lower phosphate levels by this method. Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Tap Water Filter (item #148750) will remove pollutants, including phosphate, from tap water, making water changes effective.