Page 48 - Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish, 3rd Edition

46 FRESHWATER FISH: SETTING UP THE TANK

Checking the water

Maintaining water quality in the aquarium involves
regular monitoring and adjusting. Prior to adding the ELECTRONIC MONITORING SYSTEMS
fish, measure the water’s pH (its acidity or alkalinity) A range of electronic monitoring devices are available, displaying
and hardness (the level of mineral salts in solution). various degrees of sophistication, typically reflected in their prices.
They constantly monitor water quality and other parameters, such
When the fish are established, test for toxins, such as as temperature and power supply. Such units can alert you via
smartphone or computer system if anything is seriously wrong,
ammonia and nitrite, which can be a problem in a new even if you are not at home, and so can prove to be a lifesaver for
tank (see p.52). If you have a brackish water aquarium, the tank occupants.
This device monitors temperature,
you must also monitor the salinity. pH, ammonia, and water levels and
sends an alert to a smartphone if any
parameter approaches dangerous levels.
The pH scale runs from 0 to 14, with pH7 being neutral.
Water conditions giving a pH reading above 7 are described as
alkaline; below this, they are acidic. Small changes in the pH
value have very significant effects on water chemistry.
The pH level of the water can be raised by adding coral
sand to the filter, while including aquarium peat acidifies the
water. Hardness can be increased by placing limestone rocks
or coral shells in the tank, which dissolve slowly. To soften
the conditions, add tap water that has been passed through an
ion-exchange column, which draws mineral salts from the
water, or use a reverse osmosis (RO) system.

It takes time for the plants to become
Testing established and for the filter to function with
for maximum efficiency, so frequent monitoring of
nitrite
the water conditions is essential in the first few
weeks. Adding zeolite, a chemical that removes
ammonia from the water, can help in these early
stages. If you have snails that start damaging
the plants, place a piece of cucumber under an
upturned saucer, propped up so the snails can
crawl underneath. Leave it overnight, and then
collect them in the morning.
Water test kits, which use reactive
substances that change color when
added to tank samples, can be used to
check pH, hardness, and toxin levels.

Electronic meters provide a quick
and easy way of testing hardness,
pH, and salinity. Salinity can also be
measured with a simple hydrometer.

US_046-047_Checking_The_System.indd 46 29/08/18 4:08 PM