An aquarium is the best way to display love for aquatic animals, but maintaining a conducive environment for fish is the primary concern, and pH is one of the criteria. An aquarium should have a perfect pH level for the healthy growth of fish and other aquatic animals. There are certain species of fish that prefer low or neutral pH, whereas others prefer high pH. In order to increase the pH level for those species that prefer high pH, explore various options. Let’s explore options for “how to raise pH in an aquarium.”
Why is Perfect pH Required in the Aquarium?
A balanced pH is needed for aquariums for all the reasons discussed below:
Proper Operation of Biochemical Process
The normal operation of biochemical processes in fish such as respiration, digestion, muscle contraction, ion exchange and nerve function requires a specific pH.
Respiration
The pH level hugely impacts the breathing functions in fish. Too high or too low pH can damage the gill, affecting respiration in fish.
To Control Toxic Substances in Water
The pH affects the toxicity of certain substances in water. For example, Ammonia is more toxic at high pH, so maintaining a lower pH in such a case is of utmost importance.
Successful Reproduction
Different species of fishes require different pH environments to reproduce. Species like Amazonian tropical fish prefer acidic water to reproduce whereas other species are comfortable in normal water.
Things to Consider When Adjusting Aquarium pH
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Always check the pH of tap water to see if it’s within the desired range.
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Avoid grabbing products from the aquarium shops to change pH because these products can suddenly change the pH level and may pose a threat to the lives of fish. Fishes need some time to acclimatize to the new surroundings.
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When buying any product to adjust pH, make sure it doesn’t have a temporary effect on the pH level to avoid stress to the aquatic creatures with frequent fluctuations in pH level.
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Adjust the pH in the aquarium, preferably before bringing fish into it, and keep an eye on the pH for stability.
Methods to Raise pH in Aquariums?
There are multiple ways to raise the pH in aquariums based on the species of fish. Here are some of the methods:
Chemical Buffers
Chemical buffers are the commercial products with alkaline or acidic properties which adjust the pH of the water. However, it’s recommended to follow the instructions in the product label and regularly check the pH level to check if it’s within the desired range.
Add Carbonates
Adding the right amount of carbonate raises the alkalinity of the water, which helps in raising the pH. The most effective way to add carbonate is by adding alkaline pebbles, roasted limestones and shells. All these dissolve and release carbonates.
Use a Water Treatment Agent to Adjust the pH of the Water Source
If the water source has low or high pH, either replace the source of water or pre-treat the water source. You may seek the help of water treatment agents to neutralize chlorine and other heavy metals along with adjusting the pH of the water.
Add Crushed Coral
Add crushed coral in the filter or substrate to raise the pH level of the aquarium. Crushed coral is calcium carbonate based gravels that gradually dissolve over the time and increase the pH.
Use Reverse Osmosis (RO) or Deionized (DI)
RO or DI is a smart way to maintain the desired pH, but it’s advisable to check the pH of the aquarium before making any changes in the existing pH.
Macro Algae
The use of macroalgae via algae scrubber raises the pH of the aquarium because algae absorbs CO2.
How to Check the pH Balance of an Aquarium?
pH Strips
It’s a simple and affordable testing method that involves a color chart and a set of liquid reagents. All you have to do is add a specific amount of water and reagents to check pH by comparing colors. The only flaw of this method is its partial accuracy and approximate pH range, which is not the exact range.
Electronic pH Meters
This is a better option as it gives accurate pH results on the electronic display using a pH electrode. The accuracy of an electronic meter lies in the fact that it calibrates periodically. It is a viable option for advanced aquariums which require accurate pH levels.
Water Quality Analyzer
A water quality analyzer is used to analyze the water quality by checking dissolved oxygen, temperature and salinity of water. This method is only used in professional aquariums and research institutions where precision matters.
Nitrate Measurement
Balanced nitrate is not a matter of higher concern, but high concentration of nitrate may cause excess growth of algae in the aquarium. Nitrate measurement is used to measure quality of water using a nitrate nitrogen meter.
Electronic Dissolved Oxygen Meter
Though dissolved oxygen does not affect the pH level, some external factors increase algae growth, creating the requirement for an electronic dissolved oxygen meter in the aquarium.
