How to read Salifert Calcium Test results?

[delpni]

I have a Salifert Calcium test and am trying to translate the results. The instructions indicate to drop (1 drop at a time) the solution until the water in the tube turns from pink to blue. After it turns, read where the black marker on the syringe is; mine is at 0.02 ml. Now, here is where I am confused and hoping someone on here has used this kit and understands it better than I:

The instructions say that you can use the quick reference chart, which states that a 0.02 ml reading = 490ppm for my calcium (GREAT!) HOWEVER, the directions also state that you can figure the ppm yourself by taking step 6 results (0.02ml) and multiplying that number by 500. Well, if I do that, then I get 10ppm for my calcium. This is VERY contradicting or I am an idiot, lol. PLEASE HELP!!
*I am using a full dose, not a half dose* ~Thank you!

 

[delpni]

Well, so much for me hoping it was contradicting instruction, lol. Your answer was VERY helpful. I didn't catch the 1 - step six. :doh: My calcium cannot be too high....can it? I just added a few green plants with a little white on them; I was told a good calcium level will turn them back to green? Thank you. :yay:

 

[cr500_af]

delpni;528330 wrote: Well, so much for me hoping it was contradicting instruction, lol. Your answer was VERY helpful. I didn't catch the 1 - step six. :doh: My calcium cannot be too high....can it? I just added a few green plants with a little white on them; I was told a good calcium level will turn them back to green? Thank you. :yay:

It CAN get too high, then it will precipitate out of the water column (the "snowstorm". 490 is fine.

As for the green plants, the only ones I've seen with white on them was Halimaeda. The white on that is the new growth. More calcium won't turn it "green" again. It will just fuel more growth. Halimaeda is not my favorite macroalgae as it consumes a pretty decent amount of calcium, which I'd rather let my corals use.

 

[delpni]

You guy are the best! I'd be lost without all of the wonderful advice I get on this site!! :thumbs:
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