Electro-Right
API Electro-Right is a budget-friendly mineral replacement powder available at most pet stores. Originally designed for general freshwater aquarium use, it can raise GH for shrimp tanks in a pinch. Ho
Product Overview
API Electro-Right is a budget-friendly mineral replacement powder available at most pet stores. Originally designed for general freshwater aquarium use, it can raise GH for shrimp tanks in a pinch. However, its sodium chloride content and general formulation make shrimp-specific products preferable for dedicated keepers. Consider it an emergency backup rather than a primary remineralization solution.
Detailed Review
API is one of the most recognized names in aquarium products, found in virtually every pet store. Electro-Right is their mineral replacement powder designed to restore electrolytes in RO or distilled water. For shrimp keepers, it's a mixed bag. On the positive side, it's cheap, widely available, and will raise GH. In an emergency when you need minerals and can't wait for an online order, it works. The negatives are significant though. The formula contains sodium chloride (salt) which isn't ideal for freshwater shrimp. While small amounts won't immediately harm shrimp, the cumulative effect of sodium buildup over time isn't well studied in shrimp keeping. The dosing recommendations are also designed for general aquarium use, not the precise remineralization shrimp keepers need. You'll need to experiment more compared to products with shrimp-specific dosing tables. Most experienced shrimp keepers moved away from Electro-Right once dedicated shrimp products became available. Products like Salty Shrimp, SL-Aqua, or even NilocG GH Booster are formulated without sodium and with shrimp-appropriate mineral ratios. Verdict: Use if you must, but invest in proper shrimp products when possible.
Dosing Guide
Manufacturer Recommendation
Add 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons to restore electrolytes and minerals in RO or distilled water.
Community Consensus
A budget-friendly option widely available at pet stores. Works for basic GH boosting but not specifically designed for shrimp. Contains sodium chloride which some keepers prefer to avoid. Best used when nothing else is available.
Quick Dosing Reference
Approximate amounts for Electro-Right starting from 0 TDS RO water
| Target GH | Grams per Gallon | Grams per Liter |
|---|---|---|
| 4 dGH | 0.70g | 0.18g |
| 5 dGH | 0.88g | 0.23g |
| 6 dGH | 1.05g | 0.28g |
| 7 dGH | 1.23g | 0.32g |
Important Notes
- Always test your water after mixing and before adding to your tank
- TDS readings can vary based on your TDS meter calibration
- Dose to your target GH, not TDS, for best results
- Let water sit 10-15 minutes after mixing for accurate readings
Community Feedback
Community Consensus
API Electro-Right is a budget option that works in a pinch but isn't designed specifically for shrimp keeping. The sodium chloride content and general aquarium formulation make shrimp-specific products preferable. Use when better options aren't available.
What Users Love
- Very affordable price
- Widely available at pet stores
- Works for basic GH boosting
- Trusted API brand
Common Concerns
- Contains sodium chloride
- Not shrimp-specific formulation
- Less refined than shrimp products
- Imprecise dosing recommendations
Notable Discussions
- Budget remineralizer alternatives
- API vs specialty shrimp products
- Emergency GH boosting options
Feedback aggregated from Reddit (r/shrimptank, r/Aquariums), The Planted Tank Forum, and other aquarium communities. Individual experiences may vary.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very affordable option
- Available at most pet stores
- Powder format is economical
- From established API brand
Cons
- Contains sodium chloride (salt)
- Not designed for shrimp
- General aquarium formulation
- Less community documentation for shrimp use
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it will raise GH and provide minerals. However, it's not specifically designed for shrimp and contains sodium chloride. Shrimp-specific products are generally preferred.
Freshwater shrimp don't need sodium, and its accumulation over time is an unknown variable. Products designed for shrimp use sulfate-based minerals instead.
Per package yes, and per gram it's comparable. But per GH point raised in a controlled shrimp application, dedicated products often offer better value.
In emergencies when you need minerals immediately and can't get proper shrimp products. It's better than using pure RO water with no minerals.
For budget options, consider NilocG GH Booster or DIY recipes. For quality shrimp-specific products, Salty Shrimp or SL-Aqua are community favorites.
Alternative Products
GH Booster
Budget-conscious Neocaridina keepers and planted tank enthusiasts who want reliable results without premium pricing.
Equilibrium
Keepers of planted shrimp tanks who want a single product that benefits both plants and shrimp, and value local availability over shrimp-specific optimization.
DIY GH Booster Recipe
Experienced shrimp keepers with multiple tanks who understand water chemistry and want to minimize ongoing costs.
Track Your Remineralization with ShrimpKeeper
Use our built-in calculator to dose Electro-Right perfectly every time. Track your parameters and see trends over time.
Quick Specs
Yields per Gram
Target Ranges
Available Sizes
Best For
Budget-conscious hobbyists who need something available locally and don't mind a general-purpose formulation.