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Magnesium is the third most abundant ion in seawater, surpassed only by sodium and chloride.
Its abundance is critical for the formation of weak ion pairs with carbonate ions. This allows calcium and carbonate ions to be available for uptake by corals and invertebrates.
Low magnesium levels result in low or unstable calcium and alkalinity levels. Signs of low magnesium levels include precipitation of calcium as insoluble calcium carbonate and impaired growth and health of the inhabitants.
