General African Cichlid Discussion • GH and KH Parameters

[DJRansome]

GH of 7 is sufficient. You already have minerals in your water. This is why you test before you add chemicals.

The KH of 4 could be a problem, but if you are saying your pH of 7.4 is 100% stable then see what happens.

[shiftyfox]

So what are the likely effects to the fish with low values of both Kh and Ph
In my case a Ph of 7.4 and Kh of 4..?

Does this mean I could have low oxygen levels and higher carbon dioxide levels in the tank..?

[ken31cay]

So what are the likely effects to the fish with low values of both Kh and Ph
In my case a Ph of 7.4 and Kh of 4..?

Does this mean I could have low oxygen levels and higher carbon dioxide levels in the tank..?

I don't think either of these will be affected much by your tank's pH and KH levels. To ensure high level of dissolved oxygen make sure there is sufficient water surface agitation and water temperature within the fishes' proper range (not too high). For low carbon dioxide keep the tank as clean/clear of fish waste/uneaten food as you can, also maintain the weekly water changes.

[ken31cay]

I’m not trying to increase the Ph, I’m quite happy with a stable 7.4

I just thought adding the salt would introduce some minerals to the tank water

If your pH remains at 7.4 three days after each water change then it's stable. Since my public water source is r/o water, I use Seachem Cichlid Lake Salt to re-add trace minerals (and increase GH), but most water supplies have all the mineral compounds you need. If you find you do need to add more minerals, then Kent RO Right will also do this and will not increase GH quite as much as Seachem Cichlid Lake Salt does.

[shiftyfox]

Thanks Ken.

Yeah I have a wave maker for surface agitation and use a small air stone too so hopefully there’s enough oxygen in the water.
And water changes are done approx every 5 days.
I may stop using the cichlid salt then and Gh will drop back to 7 from 11.