Cichlid water conditions

[coxyhammer]

Hi

I keep a pair of Rams.

What is the best water to keep these fish happy, i.e. PH GH KH ???

I live in a hard water area and the PH is about 7.8. What is the best way to slowly lower the PH? And what do I need to do when doing a weekly water change, so that I ensure that the water I add is the right mix to avoid highering the Ph GH KH again?

I have a Fluval external filter, bottom canister is Zeo/Carb, middle canister is peat pellets and the top canister is bio max and a polishing pad.

Am I doing anything wrong here and what products specifically do I need to add to my water for water changes to make sure it's all correct.

My tank is current 100 approx litres with just 2 rams, 32 degrees temp to combat ich and keep it away, plenty of bogwood, airstones, spray bar and plastic plants.

Thanks

 

[BillD]

Your temp is awefully high. Its should be around 80F, while you are near 90. Once ich is wiped out, it is gone, unless reintroduced. I wouldn't so anything to the water. It is better to use your water as is than try an alter it , in my opinion,as it is better to maintain stable conditions rather than try to maintain "ideal" conditions. I would change out the zeo/carb for more biomedia like sponges.

 

[HN1]

I agree with Bill. Stability is the primary goal. If you feel the need to soften the water, try a natural method (driftwood, almond leaves, peat, alder cones, etc.)