MicroE
Enlightened
Are there any tropical fish experts on CPF?
I have a 20-gallon (76-litre) freshwater tank. I check the pH at least twice each week using an electronic gauge.
The pH is always low (below 7). It typically drops to 6.5 in two days and will keep dropping if I don't correct it.
It once drifted down to 4.65 and the fish were near death.
Why does the pH always drop? How can I stop this?
The tank has plenty of air and water circulation and a large canister filter. It is well established (over 2 years in service). It is not overcrowded. There are only 7 fish: a pleco (armored catfish), two tiger barbs, and 4 pearl gouramis.
Is it the food? I give the barbs and gouramis Tetra flakes and the pleco gets algae disks.
I would appreciate any help.---Marc
I have a 20-gallon (76-litre) freshwater tank. I check the pH at least twice each week using an electronic gauge.
The pH is always low (below 7). It typically drops to 6.5 in two days and will keep dropping if I don't correct it.
It once drifted down to 4.65 and the fish were near death.
Why does the pH always drop? How can I stop this?
The tank has plenty of air and water circulation and a large canister filter. It is well established (over 2 years in service). It is not overcrowded. There are only 7 fish: a pleco (armored catfish), two tiger barbs, and 4 pearl gouramis.
Is it the food? I give the barbs and gouramis Tetra flakes and the pleco gets algae disks.
I would appreciate any help.---Marc