Using ocean water in reef tanks

[JTM4UG]

I live 5 minutes from the ocean and was think the water would be better and eliminate the need to buy salt. What is the process to get the water usable for a reef tank? Filtration, parasites, bacteria, etc.

 

[Newguy]

I was thinking the same thing myself today after reading through Paul’s thread. Just for a water change now and again. My concern is the gathering spot. Seems to be the biggest issue.

 

[JTM4UG]

i have lots of open ocean around me with minimal boats. Any suggestions on what an ideal spot would be?

 

[Chris A.]

Collect on incoming tide and always test the water for salinity alk n calcium ( everything else you want as well ) some people filter it through a coffee filter to get some of the float Irs out

 

[Ray]

when I collected I can it through a filter sock with carbon. always collected on an incoming tide, then would just heat and add the water. it's been a long while since I've collected (10 years out of the hobby) but I don't ever remember testing for anything not that it's a bad idea.

 

[Ray]

oh and I never collected after or during rain.

 

[Chris A.]

@Paul B uses it but I believe he has to add extra salt to bring up salinity.

 

[showard]

Very cool what local spots are recommended n near and around RI?

 

[Jbotelho85]

I collect out of gooseberry island in westport, or fogland beach. Salinity is 1.025 and i don't filter or add anything. Just heat and dump, I've had no issues, but ymmv.

 

[Jbotelho85]

Not fogland* meant southshore in little compton.

 

[Greg Hiller]

If the salinity is right and you are using ocean water, IMO there's no need to measure calcium, magnesium, or alkalinity, they will all be good. Even if the salinity is a bit low, I don't see an issue doing a 10-20% water change. You can always just add a bit more of the seawater and let it evaporate.

 

[Greg Hiller]

To be on the safe side however, I'd probably filter through a filter sock and through some carbon. Easy enough to do.