Magnesium is one of the three major elements that define seawater chemistry, alongside calcium and alkalinity. It stabilizes pH, prevents unwanted calcium precipitation, and supports coral and coralline algae growth. When magnesium falls below the natural seawater range, reef chemistry becomes unstable and coral health can decline. Reef Charge offers two complementary magnesium products that work together to solve this problem: Magnesium¹²+ for correction and Hydroshock Magnesium for ongoing balance.
Understanding the Role of Magnesium
Natural seawater contains approximately 1,280–1,350 ppm of magnesium. This level maintains ionic balance and keeps calcium and alkalinity in solution. Over time, magnesium can slowly decline as corals grow, water changes dilute the mix, or dosing is neglected. Because magnesium is a major ion, bringing it back to proper levels requires a targeted and concentrated approach.
Step One: Correct Low Levels with Magnesium¹²+
Magnesium¹²+ is a high-strength magnesium correction formula designed for systems where magnesium has fallen behind due to insufficient dosing or extended neglect. It raises magnesium efficiently without adding unnecessary trace elements that could upset ionic balance.
- Formulated for short-term correction and recovery.
- 1 mL per gallon increases magnesium by approximately +10 ppm.
- Pure magnesium formula without additional trace elements.
- Safe for controlled, large adjustments up to 50–100 ppm per day.
When magnesium has dropped significantly, balanced additives are not the right tool for the job. Using a concentrated formula like Magnesium¹²+ allows you to restore levels quickly and predictably without over-supplementing other elements.
Step Two: Maintain Balance with Hydroshock Magnesium
Once magnesium levels have been restored to the 1,280–1,350 ppm range, it’s time to switch to Hydroshock Magnesium for daily maintenance. Hydroshock is the Reef Charge balanced dosing system and is formulated for consistent, ongoing supplementation that mirrors natural seawater chemistry.
- Ideal for daily or automated dosing once levels are stable.
- Balances magnesium alongside trace elements.
- Prevents gradual declines in magnesium through consistent replacement.
- Supports long-term stability and coral growth in established systems.
Hydroshock Magnesium is the maintenance phase after correction, keeping your system stable, balanced, and predictable once magnesium has been brought back into range.
Why You Should Use Them in Sequence
When magnesium is low, it takes a strong, direct formula to restore it. Using a balanced additive for that purpose can push trace elements too high, creating new imbalances. The best approach is sequential:
- Test magnesium levels.
- If low ppm, use Magnesium¹²+ to raise levels gradually until back to your desired magnesium level.
- Once corrected, transition to Hydroshock Magnesium for steady daily maintenance.
This two-step process restores chemistry efficiently, prevents ionic drift, and supports a stable environment for coral health and coloration.
Safe Dosing Practices
Test before and after dosing. Do not raise magnesium by more than 50–100 ppm in a single day. Dose into a high-flow area such as a sump or return chamber, and retest after 12–24 hours before repeating. Once the target range is achieved, continue regular dosing with Hydroshock Magnesium to prevent future declines.
Final Thoughts
Magnesium correction and maintenance require different tools. Start with Magnesium¹²+ to fix the problem, then switch to Hydroshock Magnesium for reliable daily dosing. This approach gives reefkeepers precise control, long-term stability, and chemistry that stays as close to natural seawater as possible.