How to Fix the pH in a Saltwater Fish Tank
The pH, or power of hydrogen, is a measure of acidity or alkalinity and is a constantly changing water-quality parameter for aquariums. The accepted pH range for saltwater aquariums is generally 8.1 to 8.4, although certain species of fish, marine plants and coral have differing pH requirements. In order to maintain a healthy aquarium and fish population, monitoring the pH of the water with a testing kit and regularly conducting partial water changes are essential.
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Things You'll Need
- Siphon tubing
- Treated or bottled water
- Aquarium pH testing kit
- Aquarium pH reduction chemical
- Aquarium pH elevation chemical
Instructions
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Use the siphon to remove approximately one-eighth of the aquarium's water, and refill the tank with bottled water or tap water that has been treated with a chemical solution to remove excess ammonia and chlorine.
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Test the pH of the water following the water change, using the components of the testing kit.
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Add pH reduction chemical to the aquarium if the pH level of the water is too high, following product directions.
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Add pH elevation chemical to the tank if the pH level of the water is too low, following product directions.
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Retest the pH of the water two to four hours after the addition of pH elevation or reduction products to ensure the aquarium water has reached an optimal pH level.
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Tips & Warnings
If drastic changes to the pH levels are needed, do so gradually, altering about half a pH level every three days, to avoid shocking the fish and plants in the aquarium.
You can purchase the pH testing kit and necessary chemicals at a store that carries aquarium supplies.
Don't change more than one-quarter of the tank's water at one time, as this can negatively affect the salt content of the water and the health of the aquarium.
References
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