Re: Tonics, Peats, and Buffers

[Christopher R Brightwell <snowcat24@juno.com>]

Marc Weiss products should be used VERY sparingly.  I have done some
research on them, and though I won't go into intricate detail, I'll be
happy to refer you to another manufacturer of aquarium additives.  If you
want to add organic stuff to your aquarium, none of which has anything to
do with the Amazon, it's up to you.  The best "Amazon" additive on the
market, IMO, is Kent Marine Blackwater Expert.  Not only is the source of
tannins and humics EXTREMELY old (hence making it more pure and not full
of particulates), but it also contains vitamins that benefit both plants
and fish.
Phosphate buffers shouldn't be stressful to the fish provided that the
aquarium is not overdosed.  Yes, algae growth and conductivity are
certainly considerations.  However, algae growth can be curbed by
maintaining a balance of good light, carbon dioxide, and nutrients, as
I'm sure you are aware.  The use of iron supplements, and even nitrogen
supplements, can often force plants to utilize excess phosphate in the
water.  As far as conductivity, that is a less easily remedied problem. 
By starting the aquarium with RO or deionized water, you will have very
low conductivity to begin (depending on efficiency of the unit).  The
amount of phosphate in the buffer will increase TDS and conductivity, but
as the phosphate is pulled out of solution by plants and turned into
cellular material, this process will "reverse".
Just some thoughts...
Chris
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CR Brightwell
snowcat24@juno.com
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