Rubidium
PJS Element Pack Rubidium
5.00
Rubidium
Rubidium (Rb) atomic number 37, PJS considers it to be a MINOR element as it plays roles in the skeletal, biological and tissue coloration, development, growth and repair of corals and is below 1ppm in seawater. In the industry it is considered a trace element, we need to fix that. Rubidium belongs to the alkali metal group, with lithium, potassium and sodium, I think it is just as essential and must be remain in constant supply. Rubidium is an essential minor element for a healthy reef aquarium, impacting everything and the overall reef health. It’s crucial to maintain rubidium levels within the recommended range of .1–.2 mg/l (ppm).
Rubidium Key Roles
Coral Skeleton Growth and Health:
A component for a strong skeletal structural calcification for hard corals and invertebrates.
Essential in the proper use and formation of aragonite, preventing the formation of brittle calcite.
Biological Processes:
Rubidium is part of a metabolic process of coral for tissue repair, regeneration adhesion to the skeleton and growth. I feel it is also aiding in UV protection.
Crucial for preventing coral damage and promoting vibrant colors.
Enhanced Coral Coloration:
Rubidium plays a role in enhancing more vibrant tissue colorations in corals.
Crucial in producing enzymes for photosynthesis, enhancing the vibrant fluorescent colors often seen in corals.
Protection Against Parasites:
Rubidium is used by corals for tissue growth and repair, aiding in defense to protect coral tissue from predators and parasites.
Rubidium Levels
Natural Seawater Levels:
Rubidium levels in natural seawater are typically .12 parts per million (ppm).
Target Aquarium Levels:
Many reef aquarists aim to maintain rubidium at natural seawater levels.
PJS recommends aim for a rubidium concentration of .15-.2 mg/L.
Consumption Rate:
Moderate.
Rubidium Testing
ALWAYS test rubidium levels in your reef aquarium before supplementing to determine if dosing is needed to avoid overdosing.
Testing:
Regularly test rubidium levels using a reliable test kit or by sending water samples for ICP testing
Rubidium Dosing
Start slowly by beginning with a low, gradual dose over many days avoiding any sudden shifts in water chemistry and monitor the effects.
Methods:
Rubidium can be dosed via liquid additives.
Consider Advanced Methods:
Dosing stock solutions with pumps and continuous drip systems can be used to maintain precise rubidium levels.
Considerations
Overdosing rubidium can become toxic to reef inhabitants. Overdosing rubidium is very detrimental. . Rubidium is used by everything at every level, so its presence is essential and critical for overall reef health. Low rubidium levels lead to bleaching, poor coloration, reduced tissue growth, and week skeletal structure. Rubidium is to be monitored closely when being dosed. Rubidium is used, but not much is known about how, but let experience teach you , go slow and observe. Rubidium is both skeletal and tissue related, I feel it is critical for the skeletal to tissue connection and growth. Rubidium in my experience entices corals tissue expansion. In corals rubidium is used by both sides skeletal and biological in a symbiotic relationship. Rubidium levels along with proper levels of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and alkalinity must be maintained. Rubidium is essential for LPS and SPS coral growth and metabolisms.