Today on BRStv, we have another episode of BRS 52 FAQ where we answer all of your frequently asked reefing questions from our popular 52 Weeks of Reefing series. Today we are answering Candelz Reef’s question: "How do I have high nitrates but low phosphates?" This is actually a very common question, and there are a few common causes of the unbalanced ratio between nitrate and phosphate. There is an ideal ratio called the "Redfield Ratio" that is considered the perfect balance of nitrate to phosphate that is found in phytoplankton. In many cases the perfect ratio cannot be found but that is no reason to worry since it is almost impossible to replicate in a closed system. Many of the common causes of unbalanced nutrients is the addition of foods and other additives that are not perfectly balanced between nitrates and phosphates. There are also filter medias that will directly remove, nitrates or phosphates, that can cause the ratio to swing as well depending on the specific media used. So follow along as we discus and take a deeper look into nitrates, phosphates, and how their balance can affect your aquarium. *Legal Stuff* The purpose and content of this video is to provide general information regarding the products and their applications as presented in the video. Aquatic Sales Solutions, Inc. and its officers, directors, employees and agents disclaim all express or implied warranties, in any way, related to the products and their application as presented in this video, make no representation or warranty regarding the products and the application as presented in this video and shall not be liable for any direct or indirect losses or damages of any type, including but not limited to punitive damages, or from personal injury or death resulting from or in any manner related to the video, and the products in and contents of the video. The viewer expressly agrees that Aquatic Sales Solutions, Inc. and its officers, directors, employees and agents shall not be liable for any damages or losses related to the products in and content of the video and hereby agrees to hold the foregoing harmless from any such losses or damages.