Product overview
Red Sea NO3:PO4-X (NOPOX) is a carbon-based additive for controlling nitrate (NO₃) and phosphate (PO₄) in marine tanks. In a closed reef, waste raises both nutrients. High levels feed hair, brush, and slime algae, and can brown or stress corals.
It is a blend of carbon sources and organically bound elements. It feeds nutrient-reducing bacteria already in the tank, speeding denitrification (nitrate to nitrogen gas) and phosphate processing. It does not bind nutrients chemically and strip them in one hit.
Key features
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Controllable reduction: Daily dosing lets you lower or hold nutrients gradually instead of shocking the system.
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Coral colour: Lower, stable nutrients can reduce excess zooxanthellae so brown tissue shows more of the coral’s own colour.
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Growth: Excess nitrate and phosphate can slow stony coral skeleton growth; keeping them in range supports normal growth.
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Reef-safe when used as directed: Formulated not to harm copepods, amphipods, and other beneficial microfauna.
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Daily liquid: Concentrated for ongoing dosing rather than a one-off media reactor.
Water and system compatibility
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Water: Marine and reef aquariums only. Not for freshwater or planted tanks.
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Protein skimmer required: Efficient skimming is essential. It supplies oxygen and removes the bacterial floc and waste this method produces. Do not use without a working skimmer.
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Containers: Keep in the original bottle or an approved dosing reservoir. Do not use acrylic or unrated plastic tubing; the carbon compounds can degrade them.
Dosing and instructions
Always follow dosage & directions on product packaging.
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System volume: Calculate total water volume (display plus sump, minus rock displacement) before dosing.
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Starting dose: Typically 2 ml per 100 litres daily, into a high-flow area of the sump.
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SPS-dominant targets: NO₃ 1–2 ppm, PO₄ 0.02–0.06 ppm.
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Mixed reef targets: NO₃ 2–5 ppm, PO₄ 0.08–0.12 ppm.
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Testing: Measure weekly with a precise kit (for example Red Sea Nitrate Pro).
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If NO₃ falls below 1 ppm: Cut the daily dose by 50% to avoid starving the bacteria.
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Maximum: Do not exceed 3 ml per 100 litres per day.
Specifications
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Brand: Red Sea
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Range: Reef Care Program (Algae Management)
