Water hardness

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SouthernRebel

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Mar 20, 2006
12
0
0
37
Martin,TN
I got my first fish tank and am doing mbuna. Ok my ph in my tank which is my tap water is 8.2 but my kh and gh is soft. How do I fix this?
 
Howdy and welcome to MFK,

a long-term fix is the use of limestone etc. for decoration. For short-term and water changes, you could use water conditioners that increase hardness. Check your LSF (local fish store) :thumbsup:

Enjoy your Malawis,
HarleyK
 
Some people also use baking soda, epsom salts, and aquarium salt. You must experiment very carefully with your water, however, and make certain you know how much of each will raise your conditions by how much. They're also better pre-dissolved in tank water in a bucket before adding.

Also, always remember not to change things too quickly!

Most importantly, however, fish value stability over perfect water conditions. Rapid changes in water condition will do more harm than water that's a bit soft. You might just see how they do in your current water. That is likely to work out far better in the long run.
 
:grinyes: agree

Water stability is most important. Check with your lfs or where ever you plan on getting you mbuna from, what their water parameters are. If their water conditions are similar to yours, I would'nt adjust a thing.
 
Ok thanks everyone. I haven't found a supplier for mbuna yet online. As I don't have a LFS around me. Anyone know of a good online store for mbuna?
 
I consider you lucky. My water is very hard and there isn't much I can do about it.
 
It helps to choose fish that thrive in your water, so that you are not constantly fighting with your water. There are some fish that I really wanted to keep, but became very difficult to keep in my hard, well water. I agree with the "stability" reply.
Now, I am happier and my fish are happier.


bottom line:
DON'T FIGHT MOTHER NATURE, it is easier to go with her.
 
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