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Mineral Chemistry

Iron

A trace element essential for plant chlorophyll production - deficiency causes yellowing leaves and stunted growth in planted tanks.

Unit: ppm Code: IRON

📊 Ideal Ranges

Planted
0.05-0.5 ppm

📖 Overview

Iron is a micronutrient that plants require in small but critical amounts. Without adequate iron, chlorophyll production fails and leaves yellow (chlorosis). Aquatic plants show iron deficiency first in new growth - young leaves emerge pale yellow. Iron is dosed via chelated iron supplements (Fe-EDTA, Fe-DTPA for high pH) or comprehensive plant fertilisers like Seachem Flourish Iron.

Why It Matters

Chlorophyll production, plant health. Also required in trace amounts by red coloration in fish. Iron precipitates rapidly in high-pH oxygenated water - hence the need for chelated forms.