JBL ProAquaTest SiO2 Silicate, Refill

The JBL ProAqua Test SiO2 is a water test for analysis of silicate content in freshwater and seawater aquariums, as well as in ponds.

Silicon is one of the most common elements on earth. In the weathering of silicate rock, silicon in the form of silicates enters surface and groundwater. There it serves diatoms, some aquatic plants (eg hornwort) and algae as nutrients. Since silicates are non-toxic, no limit values are specified in the drinking water ordinance. Depending on the region, high-performance water, therefore, contains high levels of dissolved silicate. After equipment is installed in aquariums, brown coverings of diatoms represent the first colonisation.

These deposits disappear slowly when sufficient competition from other algae and microorganisms has arisen. This also reduces the silicate content in the water. Often, however, such diatomaceous deposits can reappear after a water change and the newly introduced silicate, especially in seawater. Therefore silicate-free osmosis water should preferably be used for filling and changing the water of marine aquariums. In fresh water, the silicate content should be less than 1.2 mg / l and in seawater less than 0.4 mg / l.

Our expert Oliver Knott recommends:
Inexplicable algae problems are often caused by silicates - a water test provides quick and reliable information about it and is also suitable for checking osmosis water and thus shows timely replacement of the membranes!