Hypo salinity and refractometer

[tzevchik]

Hi All,

I was reading about hypo-salinity and the treatment of ich. Is a refractometer really necessary, or is the std specific gravity salinity tester ok? I read the salinity should be 1.010 and 1.013, which is a narrow window. For what other applications can a refractometer be used relative to the hobby?

 

[Bifferwine]

You should use a refractometer. Hydrometers can be very inaccurate. I can't think of anything besides measuring salinity that it's used for.

 

[Smitty]

+1 Biff...

 

[tzevchik]

Any brand you recommend?

 

[BL1]

Nope you can get any kind you want, they all work the same. There are some that come with built in back-lighting which can make them easier to read.

 

[reeftanker84]

i use a vee-gee atc refractometer

 

[tzevchik]

I have used them in my work in the past but they priced out at $300-$400. I saw some online for around $50.00. I was just concern about quality.

 

[Bifferwine]

No, you can get a good one for $40 online. No reason to spend hundreds!

 

[tzevchik]

Thanks. I have to get some supplies tomorrow so I'll check locally too.

 

[jcegt87]

yeah usually LFS will try to get a profit so they overcharge (happened to me the first time ) i bought mine for 130$ theni went home found Dr.Foster and smith and same damn piece was only like 50$ if you can wait for shipping i would highly suggest online unless you can find it for a good price at your LFS

 

[tzevchik]

I saw bulk reef supply has a nice one for $40 with the cal. soln.

 

[Reef Nutz]

NEW! Salinity Refractometer 4 Aquarium Ocean Hydrometer | eBay $24.00 and $7.50 shipping.

 

[Northstar24]

I saw bulk reef supply has a nice one for $40 with the cal. soln.

I have the one from BRS, its a quality unit - I have no complaints