dbrown918

My 10 gallon tank is well cycled, readings are nitrite 0ppm, nitrate 5ppm, and ammonia 0ppm. Problem is, my tap water pH is always low, somewhere in the range of 6 or lower (can't tell because there is no color on my test kit for lower than 6, but it reads 6 at least.). What would be the best way to go about raising the pH to an alkaline level of 7-7.5. I have a large sea shell in there and it helps, but very very slowly, which I guess is good. Should I add more sea shells..I live right next to the beach. Should I crush up sea shells for more surface area and if I do, should I put them in the filter in a floss bag or should I put them in the tank itself in something? Is there any other way to raise it naturally and slowly or will this be the best option. I tried leaving the water out for 2 days, but it only raised the pH to about 6.4. I have 8 guppies in the tank, a nerite snail, and 2 small ghost shrimp. Thanks.

Shawnie

Yes you could add more shells ..but always do it slowly as a fast change in ph isnt good...either in the filter in a bag crushed up or in the tank would work fine....just go slow

CHoffman

Shawnie gave you good advice. You wouldn't want to shock your fish. Limestone rock also raises the PH as does Texas Holey rock. Not to sure what else can help I have very high PH water so never had to worry about it. But I do know it's much easier to raise PH then it is to lower it so hopefully it will work out for you. Good luck.

AlyeskaGirl

You don't want the pH 6 or below because it causes the nitrifying bacteria to die off......so using shells is a good idea. I have the same problem.....I went down and grabbed some clam shells off my beach. lol

http://www.ratemyfishtank.com/articles/107