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About Nathan
Expertise
I can answer all questions related to freshwater aquariums. If I am not available because I am maxed out, you can find me on the Aquarium Plants category. Fish care, fish behavior, feeding, breeding, and diseases are my specialty. To be specific, I am most familiar (though I am familiar with most species) with Livebearers, Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Loaches, Goldfish, Angelfish (freshwater), Catfish (corydoras, plecos, etc.), Bettas, shrimp, and even snails. I can help out with new tank setups, the cycling process (nitrogen cycle), acclimation of fish, and general care. I can also answer questions regarding many species of freshwater plants, including fish compatibility with plants. Additionally, I can lend a hand when it comes to aquarium support equipment questions, such as those regarding filters, heaters, lighting, and thermometers. Questions about aquarium water conditioners and products are also accepted. I will try to answer your question to the best of my abilities, and if I do not know an answer, I will do my best to find out. I do not have much experience in saltwater aquariums, or pressurized CO2 systems, so I cannot answer any such questions. Best wishes, and good luck to your fish!

Experience
I have kept freshwater fish tanks for many years, and I am experienced with a variety of different freshwater species and invertebrates, such as Tetras, Barbs, Loaches, Danios, Livebearers, Cichlids, Goldfish, Bettas, Catfish, Shrimp, and Snails. I have helped people set up aquariums, and I am very familiar with aquarium products and equipment. I have also bred many fish, and I always care for my fish in the best way possible. What makes a good home for tropical fish? Well, all tropical fish, like guppies and Bettas, require filters, heaters, and a good-sized tank. Healthy fish should be actively swimming and feeding, with defined fins and clear eyes. Take a random check of some of your fish daily, to make sure they're thriving!

Education/Credentials
I own an extensive collection of aquarium-related books and magazines, and have read all about, and I am experienced in, many aspects of humane and proper fishkeeping. Through these books and other articles, from reliable internet sources, and from personal experience with fish, I have a thorough knowledge of freshwater aquariums, fish, and freshwater plant species.

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Animals/Pets > Pet Fish > Freshwater Aquarium > aquarium water conditions

Freshwater Aquarium - aquarium water conditions


Expert: Nathan - 11/3/2009

Question
i have a large pacu in a tank. i used a water test kit and it said the tank's water is acidic. i did a water change, what else can i do to lower the acidity and works the best?

Answer
Hi there,

Your acidity can be reduced by performing a series of partial water changes of about 20%. Try a 20% water change daily for a week. As long as the replacement water is not acidic, it should do the trick.

If water changes do not work, there are many products available at your local fish store that will raise the pH or stabilize the pH at certain values. Rather than getting a pH -raising product, buy one that will stabilize the pH to neutral (7.0). Only do this if the water changes do not work. Chemicals should be used as a last resort...

Another way to raise pH would be to add some crushed coral to your aquarium. A small handfull will do the trick. You can place it in a small mesh bag, or even insert it into the filter if you have a large power or canister filter.

Remember to keep up with the regular routine of a 10-25% water change weekly. Failure to do this will result in a decrease of pH over time.

Good Luck, and Happy Fishkeeping!

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