GEOsystem Natural Gravels - ph question
I need a natural gravel for the type of tank I'm setting up and one of the things that I don't want is for the pH to rise from the gravel. Will GEOsystem natural gravel affect the pH balance in aquarium water?
I need a natural gravel for the type of tank I'm setting up and one of the things that I don't want is for the pH to rise from the gravel. Will GEOsystem natural gravel affect the pH balance in aquarium water?
It is important to rinse any natural gravel and/or sand thoroughly before use to remove any dust or debris that may have been in the package. When properly rinsed, the water shold run clean and clear. The actual rocks used in creating any Natural gravel can vary from batch to batch, as the source will rarely be completely uniform in composition. It is a totally natural product. This is the main reason there is a warning on the product that there can be an active shift in water characteristics, mainly pH. Depending on the actual rock and its chemical composition, any natural gravel may cause shifts in pH when first added to the aquarium and the gravel has not had a chance to leach any compounds that may buffer the water or harden it. Over time, the addition of acid from the various sources within this aquarium has caused the increased hardness in the past. The main thing for the present is that the pH, which is more critical, remains relatively constant at approximately neutral. With time, as biofilms form on the gravel and water changes are performed with an existing softer local water source, pH levels should tend to fall. The addition of our new Fluval granulated peat will also help to soften the water. Combined with regular water changes, appropriate conditions for healthy fish and plants should not be a problem. In fact, the gravel will likely maintain the KH within the 50 to 90 mg/L KH range as per the GEOsystem Guide. In an aquarium, it is actually important that there is adequate buffering capacity. pH declines far too easily with KH values of 20 to 30 mg/L or less. Within the Amazon basin in some locations buffering capacity (KH) is almost non existent. This water chemistry can exist when there is an endless supply of fresh water, however, within the confines of an aquarium the reality is very different and would quickly lead to negative consequences. The main thing is that the pH is within range, KH values of 10 to 20 mg/L more than the recommended range are not a problem. GH is far less of an issue and should resolve itself over time as the aquarium matures and our new Fluval granulated peat is incorporated within the filter system.
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