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I could not find a thread that talked about the optimal pH in a planted aquarium. I want to lower my pH since i have rams, but i do not know if there is a safe way to lower the pH. I have a CO2 reactor so that lowers the pH, but i cannot seem to get it down below 7.0. I have seen the products that lower pH but i do not know if they are ok. I was told that driftwood might do the trick, but what kind? I have been looking online and there are so many different woods! Thanx for your help!

What was your pH before the Co2 ? It's possible your Co2 levels are still not optimum so the pH hasn't lowered much.

You are right to avoid adding chemicals to reduce the pH as they just lead to the Ph bouncing all over the place.

Actually a pH 7 is a nice neutral level and certainly won't harm your plants, shouldn't cause any undue concern to your Rams either. So I wouldn't worry too much about it.

As to the "optimum" for plants, well plants like the fish, come from different regions and different biotopes so there needs vary just as much as the fish, but generally they are very adaptable. Most do best in a pH from 6.5-7, so again you are fine.

Driftwood will help make the water more acidic by releasing tannins, but the drop in pH will barely register. Some peat in your filter will also reduce the Ph but will also stain your water.

I wouldn't mess around too much with it, a consistent pH will be far more preferable to one that swings widely all over the place.

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Some days you're the pigeon and some days you're the statue.

Remember that age and treachery will always triumph over youth and ability.

Thanx for your response, i dont think i am going add any chemicals...the chemicals always seem like they will hurt the tank more than help it. I may get some driftwood though.

Would drfitwood be a good way to lower the pH naturally? I want to lower it but i do not want to take a chance with chemicals. I want the pH to be a little lower because i would like to attempt to breed my rams.

I went and bought a piece of driftwood, hope that will help, it looks nice anyway!

From what I've been told, the driftwood does release tannins that reduce Ph. It's just that it happens really, really slowly. It's not a great way to do it if you're a watched pot never boils person

Good luck with the Rams!

Last edited by azmentl at 02-Jan-2005 16:14