So what is Water Chemistry anyhow?
The water in your aquarium has many different characteristics. Each of these characteristics influence success you will have with caring for the inhabitants of your aquarium. Thats why we aim to boost your knowledge of water quality at Reef River Reptile. Doing so will help to improve you base understanding while gain some experience. So what are the most common properties of water chemistry? Lets take a look.
PH
Complexity: Easy
Frequency: Weekly
This is a measure of the number of hydrogen ions it contains. The number determines the water’s relative acidity or alkalinity. PH is measured on a scale ranging from 0 to 14, with acidic water being under 7 and alkaline water over 7. PH of 7 is therefore considered neutral. A range of 6.5 to 7.5 is suitable for most tropical fish. Some African Rift Lake cichlids prefer a much higher PH, while tetras and discus prefer a lower PH.
AMMONIA
Complexity: Easy
Frequency: Weekly (While cycling your aquarium) - Monthly
This is a highly toxic substance that is produced from fish waste, rotting food and any decaying matter. Fortunately there are beneficial bacteria that naturally consume this toxin for us.
NITRITE
Complexity: Easy
Frequency: Weekly (While cycling your aquarium) - Monthly
This is a by-product of the bacteria that consumes the ammonia. It too is considered toxic. Again there are beneficial bacteria that convert nitrite into less harmful nitrate.
NITRATE
Complexity: Moderate
Frequency: Weekly (While cycling your aquarium) - Monthly
This is the final stage of decomposition. In nature, nitrates are absorbed by plants, algae and other micro-organisms. In the aquarium however, nitrates tend to build up far more quickly and therefore need to be diluted. High levels of nitrate will stress fish, thus lowering their immune system. This is one of the main reasons we encourage partial water changes.
This is why it is essential that you cycle your aquarium properly as these beneficial bacteria are not present when you first set up the aquarium. In many cases this can take up to 2 months to properly establish itself.