Alkalinity is actually the capability of the water to maintain a good pH level. So, the alkalinity of the water can be known by measuring the pH level of the water. A good alkalinity range means that the water has neither too much acidity nor is too basic. The ideal alkalinity range of the fish is about seventy to one hundred and forty parts per million(ppm). But, when the alkalinity of the water of the fish tank becomes higher than that suitable for a healthy survival of the fish, it can harm the fish. So, it is important to reduce the alkalinity of the water in such cases.
Ways to Reduce Alkalinity of Water
There are various methods to reduce the alkalinity of the water and you can reduce the alkalinity of the water of a fish tank through both the natural methods as well as by adding chemicals and filters. The natural methods prove to be more useful and they prove long-term pH control. Let’s discuss some of the useful methods to lower or reduce the alkalinity of the fish tank water:
Changing the Water Regularly
Sometimes the waste material present in the fish tank water gets trapped in the substrate of the tank and this also affects the level of alkalinity of the water. So, changing the water or replacing a certain amount of water with the fresh distilled water, RO water or rainwater can help reduce the alkalinity of the water.
Adding Driftwood
Adding driftwood in the water can reduce the alkalinity and the pH level of the water as the driftwood releases tannins in the water that reduce the alkalinity and the pH level of the water. It is recommended to add the raw and natural driftwood in the water as it is considered to be the safest for the fish inside the tank.
Adding Plants
You must have known that plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen in the environment as a result. The release of oxygen in the water reduces the alkalinity of the water. Moreover, the presence of plants in the fish tank also helps keep the water clean as they also absorb the nutrients present in the water.
Adding Peat Moss
Adding peat moss in the fish tank in a small amount is also very useful to reduce the alkalinity and the pH level of the water. When the water passes in the area where the peat moss is placed, it starts reducing its alkalinity. The peat moss can be added in the filter connected to the fish tank and can also be placed in a mesh bag in the aquarium.
Adding Vinegar or Lemon Juice
Adding a very small amount of either lemon juice or vinegar can possibly reduce the level of alkalinity of the water. These substances must be added in a small amount for the reason that adding the amount more than that required can create trouble for the fish or harm the fish. So, it is also recommended to frequently test the pH level of the water after adding vinegar or lemon juice in order to make sure that it has not been added in the amount more than that required.
The Bottom-Line
Keeping the pH level and hence the alkalinity of the water moderate and in the amount that is required for a healthy living for the fish is important as increased pH and alkalinity can harm the fish. There are various useful ways to reduce the alkalinity of the water of the fish tank including changing the water regularly, adding driftwood, adding plants in the water and adding either vinegar or lemon juice in the water.
