Should I Test For Calcium?

I have had a neo shrimp colony for a few weeks now. I am wondering if I should be testing my water for calcium. Is there any way to tell if my shrimp are getting enough calcium?

 

Well, to add calcium, some people use calcium carbonate tablets, which are tums or something similar.
I recommend cuttlebone added to the filter, or directly in the tank. It does take time to sink.
Shrimp are supposedly supposed to have a white line somewhere on their body that indicates a calcium lactation.

 

How do I tell if I need to add calcium, or is it something I should just do?

 

You'll need a GH/KH liquid test kit, if they're high I would not add anything.

 

Got it. I just ordered one. When I was looking, I saw a calcium specific test kit and did not know if I should get one, too. I have been keeping fish for years but have honestly never tested for gh/kh.

 

Got it. I just ordered one. When I was looking, I saw a calcium specific test kit and did not know if I should get one, too. I have been keeping fish for years but have honestly never tested for gh/kh.

I don't think people really get as specific as to test for just calcium, but GH is what's more important and it includes calcium.

 

At what level should I start supplementing calcium? My test kit should arrive wednesday.

 

At what level should I start supplementing calcium? My test kit should arrive wednesday.

If GH is below 6. Some supplements add more calcium carbonate (KH) than GH, so I use a GH booster

 

You might also find calcium levels in your municipal water report, if that's available to you.