I have started a 20 gallon frag tank and ph stays around 8.5 to 8.6. Alkalinity is at 8 and salinity is at 1.025 if that maters. I know there’s nothing in the tank to start photo synthesis however I been having high ph on my old tank as well. I understand in order for my ph to rise above 8.5 my alkalinity should be at 14dkh!! Leading to calcium precipitate. But for my alkalinity to be at 8 and I measured twice with Hannah checker I most likely have low carbon dioxide issues. All my tanks have been in the basement with just me down there so tons of oxygen down there. The tanks are well Aerated as well. Any thoughts ? Should I slowly dose soda water or viniger or get a co2 reactor if they exist? Thanks
High ph
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Randy Holmes-Farley
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Unless there is something in the tank that is leaching high pH chemicals (such as artificial rock) or you are dosing very high additives (such as limewater), I expect the pH measurement is not accurate. Simple aeration would bring it down, if it was that high.
There is no shortage of CO2 in your basement air.
I also would not worry about that pH level, even if it is real (its not at all likely). The only real drawback is excessive abiotic precipitation of calcium carbonate.
There is no shortage of CO2 in your basement air.
I also would not worry about that pH level, even if it is real (its not at all likely). The only real drawback is excessive abiotic precipitation of calcium carbonate.
I’m using pukani as rock no artificial rocks or decor. I never used Lime water or kalk. I am going to invest in a ph meter so I can get accurate readings however if it was to be that high and I shouldn’t worry about it then I guess I’m not going to worry about it long as it’s stable.I just wanted a good environment for my corals.
