What is pH Level? Do you need to check your aquarium pH?

What is pH level? pH is measure by the concentration of hydrogen ion in your water.

In other words, the higher the concentration the more acidic the water is.

With a scale of 0 to 14, pH level of 7 is neutral, while levels below 7 are considered acidic and above 7 are alkaline.

Checking for water parameter is important in order to keep your fish happy and your aquarium balanced.

It is important to note that not all tanks require the same water chemistry: each species of fish has a natural pH preference based on its native environment. For example, tropical fish from acidic rivers like the Amazon thrive in lower pH, while species from alkaline regions, such as African cichlids, prefer a higher pH.

If the pH is too far outside the ideal range, fish can become stressed, leading to illness. Also, pH can affect plant growth and the overall water chemistry.

pH scale

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Factors That Affect Aquarium pH

1. Water Source: Tap water’s pH may vary depending on your location and treatment processes.

2. Substrate and Decorations: Some substrates, like crushed coral, and decorations, can naturally raise pH. Driftwood or Indian Almond Leaf, on the other hand, can lower pH by releasing tannins.

3. Filtration and Aeration: High oxygen levels can increase pH slightly, while more CO₂ from poor aeration will lower it.

4. Plants and Animals: The natural processes from fish waste, decaying plants, and food can contribute to changes in pH.

5. Chemical Additives: Treatments, water conditioners, and medications can change pH levels unintentionally.

   
   
   
   

Testing and Monitoring pH

To maintain a stable pH, regular testing is essential. It’s best to test your aquarium water at least once a week, but this may need to be more frequent if you’re dealing with fluctuating pH levels.

Some of the useful test kits: API Master Test Kit, Seachem pH Alert, Supervital pH tester

How to Adjust Aquarium pH

Lowering pH

• Driftwood / Indian Almond Leaf (Daun Ketapang) : Adding driftwood / Indian almond leaf releases tannins that can naturally lower pH over time.

• Peat Moss: Using peat in the filter or tank substrate also gradually lowers pH.

• Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water: Mixing RO water with tap water can help lower pH and hardness.

• pH Buffers: Commercial products are available to lower pH, such as Seachem Acid Buffer.

  
  

Raising pH

• Crushed Coral: Adding crushed coral as a substrate or in a filter can increase pH naturally.

• Alkalinity Buffers: There are commercial buffers designed to increase and stabilize pH that work well for cichlid and marine tanks, such as Seacham Alkaline Buffer.

  
  

Stabilizing pH

Some products stabilize pH by buffering it, making the pH less susceptible to fluctuations. Maintaining a stable pH is typically more important than achieving an exact number, especially when you have multiple fish with slightly different pH preferences. To stabilize pH at neutral leve, we recommend Seachem Neutral Regulator.

Avoiding pH Fluctuations

This is VERY IMPORTANT!!! Fluctuations of pH can stress fish, making them vulnerable to diseases and other health issues. To minimize fluctuations:

• Perform regular water changes with water.

• Avoid overcrowding, which can increase waste and lower pH.

• Monitor feeding and remove uneaten food to prevent waste buildup.

  
  

Maintaining the proper pH in your aquarium is a vital aspect of fishkeeping that supports a balanced ecosystem and enhances the health of your aquatic inhabitants. By understanding the natural pH preferences of your fish and plants and monitoring your tank’s pH levels regularly, you can create a more stable, stress-free environment for your aquatic friends. With a few adjustments, anyone can enjoy a thriving aquarium filled with happy, healthy fish!