jdsunflower
Aquarium Advice Activist
I have some questions concerning pH.
Most postings here warn against using commercial buffers, but my pH is 9 and I think it would be cruel to keep fish in this (mine is an acid pool FW 40B)--I've tried to use vinegar (Halstad's suggestion), but fear problems...the water does seem cloudy and I'm not sure if this is a bacteria bloom, or the vinegar...
Anyone have a similar situation, and what have you done about it?
Also, if you use vinegar, can you still use a tiny touch of bicarbonate soda to raise the hardness, as well as Epsom salt and potassium for minerals (my plants are gasping really)?
Would a mix of phosphates and vinegar minimize the harm of each, or make things worse?
all help appreciated,
JD
Most postings here warn against using commercial buffers, but my pH is 9 and I think it would be cruel to keep fish in this (mine is an acid pool FW 40B)--I've tried to use vinegar (Halstad's suggestion), but fear problems...the water does seem cloudy and I'm not sure if this is a bacteria bloom, or the vinegar...
Anyone have a similar situation, and what have you done about it?
Also, if you use vinegar, can you still use a tiny touch of bicarbonate soda to raise the hardness, as well as Epsom salt and potassium for minerals (my plants are gasping really)?
Would a mix of phosphates and vinegar minimize the harm of each, or make things worse?
all help appreciated,
JD