A Healthy Biome - Preventative Bacteria Dosing Program
An ongoing preventative dosing program of good bacteria to help maintain a healthy biome and balance, avoid nuisance algae problems, and reduce maintenance. This program should be considered alongside Water Quality and Nutrient Balance, as bacteria dosing and water testing work together to keep your aquarium stable.
Successful reef keeping is about observing your aquarium regularly, recognising changes early, and making small corrections before they become larger problems. One of the most important habits you can build is maintaining a healthy population of beneficial bacteria.
Why Beneficial Bacteria Matter
Beneficial bacteria are the foundation of a healthy Living Oceans ecosystem. They break down fish waste, detritus, and organic buildup, and most importantly, they out-compete nuisance algae and bad bacteria before they can take hold. While beneficial bacteria occur naturally in your aquarium, we recommend proactively dosing them on a routine schedule to keep their numbers strong from day one.
Your Dosing Schedule
First Month — Dr Tim's Refresh
From the day your aquarium is first set up, add your dose of Dr Tim's Refresh weekly for the first four weeks.
Small (80L): 2 caps per week
Medium (130L): 3 caps per week
Large (200L): 4 caps per week
This supports the establishment of good bacteria and minimises the chance of nuisance algae or imbalances.
Month 2 Onward — Switch to Dr Tim's Waste-Away
Once your cleanup crew is added at the start of month two, switch to Dr Tim's Waste-Away and continue dosing monthly, indefinitely. The dosage stays the same.
Small (80L): 2 caps per month
Medium (130L): 3 caps per month
Large (200L): 4 caps per month
Waste-Away breaks down detritus, replenishes beneficial bacteria, and reduces how often water changes are needed. There's no downside to keeping this routine going long-term.
Small, consistent adjustments made early will always be more effective, and less stressful for your livestock, than large corrections made after a problem has developed.
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