How to Treat Acidic Water in a Salt Water Aquarium

Acidic salt water kills fish and other organisms.

The pH, or Power of Hydrogen, level of a saltwater aquarium is a daily concern of hobbyists. For saltwater fish keeping, the correct pH level is important for the health of the fish. The correct pH level is even more important for reef aquariums. Acidic water kills living organisms quickly. Treating an acidic, or low pH reading, is necessary for keeping any saltwater aquarium vibrant and healthy. Checking the water daily, or more often, tells you if your aquarium is acidic and needs treated.

Things You'll Need

• Water test for saltwater pH
• Siphon hose
• Bucket
• pH buffer
• Salt for saltwater aquariums
• Hygrometer

Instructions

1. 

   You need a water test kit to find the current pH level in a saltwater aquarium.

   Test the saltwater aquarium pH level. A good reading falls within 8.1 to 8.4. A reading of 7 is considered neutral; anything below is acidic and above is alkaline.

2. Change a small portion of the water by siphoning or dipping water out. Replace the water with fresh, un-chlorinated water. Saltwater has natural buffers, but fish waste contributes to acidity. Add the salt and test the specific gravity, or salt content, with a hygrometer before adding it to the aquarium.

3. Test the water frequently to get an accurate reading after each partial water change. Do not change large amounts of water or small portions quickly, as the shock from sudden changes causes stress for all living organisms and fish.

4. Repeat partial water changes, adding small amounts of pH buffer if necessary. The less chemical usage you employ, the better for your aquarium inhabitants. Frequent testing is the best option, keeping levels at an acceptable rate with frequent partial water changes. Aquarium supply stores sell pH buffers specifically for saltwater aquariums.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a close watch on your saltwater aquarium whenever you add new fish or any living item.

• Any bucket, siphoning hose or other water-changing items should not be used for anything but the aquarium to avoid cleaning solution residue or other harmful chemicals being introduced to the aquarium.

• Beware of any sudden changes, as shock will kill fish and other living items in your saltwater aquarium.

References

• Aquatic Community: Marine Aquariums - pH and Alkalinity