jaytori220

I am getting ready to set up my 100 gallon african cichlid tank. Im not sure what africans Im gonna do yet. I went to the LFS and had my water tested from the tap. We have well water with softener. He said that my water pH was over 8 but the water was soft. Is that possible? I thought the higher the ph is the harder the water is. He said that african would like the high ph. But he never said anything about the water softness. Could I keep the water as is or would I have to add crushed coral to the filter? I have a small 18 gal tank now with a few guppies, a molly, some tetras that Ive had forever and 2 new goldfish. Everyone has done good in that and Ive done nothing to it but water changes.

mathas

It is possible, though relatively uncommon.

Skepticalaquarist has an article that mentions how this may come to pass: http://www.skepticalaquarist.com/doc...oftening.shtml

CWO4GUNNER

I have heard that Africans do like higher PH but 8 seems a little excessive. I would make sure that whatever the median PH requirement is that you target the middle of the PH requirement for that species. The key is the PH requirement not whether your water is perceived as hard or soft which is a loose term anyway, PH-PH-PH. Now to get to the middle of the target if it requires coming down I recommend the use of some RO water with water that high to bring it down. The percentage you will have to experiment with and then followup with the proper mix at each water change.
Remember that Africans are considered sensitive to even tiny amounts of ammonia which is actually a myth. The reason Africans die so easily even undetectable amounts of ammonia is because of the high PH which almost immediately allows the release of deadly NH3 as soon as ammonia is present. So be on guard with Prime and consider using small doses at every water chnage as insurance.

Shawnie

welcome to fishlore!!!! most pet stores use test strips which are notorious for inaccuracy....maybe getting your own liquid kit could answer your own question better?

jaytori220

I was thinking of doing that. That way at least I have it on hand.

Iron waffle

the pH and hardness of water are different, african cichlids prefer hard water and ideally, a high pH. you might want to get it tested again elsewhere if you're not too sure.

CWO4GUNNER

Concur. Test yourself if possible as LFS have a conflict of interest in selling you anything and everything. Just remember high PH makes ammonia much more toxic so watch your ammonia and cycle thoroughly before buying installing any fish with high PH, or they will all be dead faster then it take to eat a good meal.