Is a PH level important?
Neutral water is given a pH value of 7.0. It contains equal amounts of hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). When chemicals or minerals dissolve in the water it changes its pH level. Low pH is more acidic while a high pH is more alkaline. Fish come from many different sources so the pH in the water varies greatly. Generally, saltwater fish prefer an alkaline pH of 8.0 or above. Freshwater fish thrive in a range lower than that, somewhere between 5.5 and 7.5, depending on the specific species. Adding new fish to a tank will change the level, this can be harmful to the fish when drastically changed. There really isn’t a flat compatible pH for all fish. Check your pH levels and monitor you fishes eating habits. They usually won’t eat if the water they are in is not working for them.
