Reef Code A-P & B-P

Created by Adam Clayton, Modified on Tue, 7 Apr at 11:39 AM by Adam Clayton

Reef Code A-P & Reef Code B-P – FAQ


What are Reef Code A-P and Reef Code B-P?
Reef Code A-P and Reef Code B-P are powdered versions of the Reef Code two-part system designed to maintain calcium and alkalinity levels in marine aquariums.


What does Reef Code A-P do?
Reef Code A-P is the calcium component. It increases calcium levels in the aquarium, which is essential for coral growth and skeletal development.


What does Reef Code B-P do?
Reef Code B-P is the alkalinity (carbonate) component. It maintains alkalinity, stabilizes pH, and supports buffering capacity in the aquarium.


Why are Reef Code A-P and B-P used together?
They are designed to be used together in equal proportions to maintain calcium and alkalinity in the same balanced ratio found in natural seawater.


What is the difference between the liquid and powdered versions?

  • Reef Code A & B → Ready-to-use liquid
  • Reef Code A-P & B-P → Powdered, must be mixed before use

The powdered versions are more economical and ideal for large systems.


What types of aquariums are Reef Code A-P & B-P for?
They are intended for reef aquariums with corals, clams, and other calcifying organisms that require stable calcium and alkalinity levels.


What are the benefits of using Reef Code A-P & B-P?

  • Supports coral growth and skeletal development
  • Maintains stable alkalinity and pH
  • Provides balanced calcium and carbonate levels
  • More cost-effective for large or high-demand systems

How do I prepare Reef Code A-P & B-P for dosing?

  • Dissolve each part separately in purified water to create a liquid solution
  • Mix in a clean container until fully dissolved
  • Do not add powder directly to the aquarium

Can I mix Reef Code A-P and B-P together before dosing?
No. Always prepare and dose each part separately. Mixing them together will cause precipitation and make them ineffective.


How do I dose Reef Code A-P & B-P?

  • Dose each prepared solution separately
  • Typically dose equal amounts of each
  • Adjust dosing based on calcium and alkalinity test results

How often should I dose Reef Code A-P & B-P?
Dosing depends on your tank’s consumption rate. Most reef aquariums require daily or frequent dosing once demand is established.


What parameters should I monitor when using Reef Code A-P & B-P?

  • Calcium (target ~412–450 ppm)
  • Alkalinity (typically 7–12 dKH)
  • Magnesium (~1290–1320 ppm recommended to prevent imbalance)

Why is magnesium important when using this system?
Proper magnesium levels help prevent calcium and alkalinity from precipitating out of solution, allowing both to remain stable and available.


What happens if calcium and alkalinity become unbalanced?
Dosing amounts may need to be adjusted independently to restore proper balance based on testing.


Can I use Reef Code A-P & B-P with other supplements?
Yes, but avoid using other calcium or alkalinity products at the same time unless correcting a specific imbalance.


Are Reef Code A-P & B-P safe for reef inhabitants?
Yes. When properly mixed and dosed as directed, they are safe for corals, fish, and invertebrates.

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