Question: Help with Holtfreter's Solution?

[ashmor604]

I've googled and searched this site but I can't seem to get a straight answer on how much to put in my 20 gallon tank (or I'm just totally not understanding). I bought a bag from Ambystoma Genetic Stock Center and it says "Makes 40% solution in ~40 gallons of water." So do I just dissolve half of the bag in a pitcher with dechlorinated water and then dump it in? If so, when do I need to add more and how much each time?
Sorry if these are total newbie questions.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[auntiejude]

First up - why are you adding it? Most tapwater doesn't need any additives.

You need to test the hardness (GH) of your water before you start adding stuff - you can usually check your local water quality on line. Unless it's considerd to be 'very soft' you shouldn't need to add anything.

 

[Geckogal]

The only time you really need to add any type of mineral solution is if you are using RO water. It would be used to replace what was taken out by the purification process.

 

[michael]

http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-be...l-discussion/47227-holtfreter-s-solution.html

The recommended strength is 40%. I'd use half of the amount of salts for a 40 gallon in a 20 gallon. I'd use less for real hard water. I mostly use salt water aquarium salt to amend my axolotl water.