Seachem PhosGuard

[limsteel]

What you guys think of this product? Algae feeds on Phosphate and Silicate, If I use this product in moderation do you think it is good?

Also is Phosphate tester a must?

[David]

think it maybe better to learn how to control Phosphate through feeding regime, water change and nutrient balancing. Relying on such compound as a form of control will have some side effects in your overall tank conditions.

[smgwee]

I used this product to control brown algae (Silicate main cause for brown algae) in my tonina tank. After 2 weeks or so, the brown algae were under control, however there was a sign for nutrient deficiency. I removed PhosGuard and replace it with carbon.

[bclee]

Phosphate is not the primary cause of algae. In fact, too little phosphate will stunt plant growth. Having some phosphate is good at controlling spot algae.

If you have algae problem, look at the overall nutrient picture rather than just PO4. I have had over 30ppm of PO4 without alage problem.

BTW, carbon filter is not really recommended for planted tanks. It is said to remove the chelated nutrients which we add via liquid fertilisers.

PO4 tester is not a must. However, it is a good tool for you to learn about planted tanks.

A good mechical filter and probably biological filter is all it is needed for a planted tank. All those chemical filtration stuff is not really needed for planted tank.

BC