How to Lower pH in a Freshwater Aquarium

In freshwater aquariums with angelfish, discus, and other South American fish, it is common to have a target pH of 6.0-7.5. This is lower than most aquariums normally measure at. Here are the top four ways to lower your aquarium pH.

1.Start with RO water
It is very difficult to have a pH different from your starting water, and many of us have high-pH tap water. The best practice is to start with purified RO water and then add minerals back to the water. You can purchase RO water from your local fish store or grocery store, or you can make your own RO water with an RO system. To remineralize your water so that you have the minerals needed for plant growth, you can use Brightwell Remineralize.

2.Remove pH-increasing materials
Anything calcium-based, such as seashells, limestone rock, or aragonite substrate, will slowly dissolve and increase the aquarium's pH. If you have any calcium-based decorations or filter media in your aquarium, then remove it.

3.Add pH buffers
If you are already using RO water and have removed any pH-increasing material from your water, then the next step is to add an acidic buffer that will lower the pH. Seachem Acid Buffer is a good choice. It is best to add the buffer to new water when doing a water change rather than adding the powder directly to the aquarium.

4.Add pH-decreasing materials
Some materials will naturally decrease aquarium pH. Driftwood, Catappa leaves, and peat granules will all lower aquarium pH. Add some driftwood to your aquascape, consider leaving some Sera Catappa Leaves on the bottom of the aquarium, and maybe even add some Sera Super Peat Granules to your filter. pH-decreasing materials are not as targeted as adding a pH-decreasing additive, but it is less work, which is a popular reason why many choose this method over measuring out and dosing an additive.

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How to Lower pH in a Freshwater Aquarium

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