How to Naturally Reduce pH in an Aquarium

In order to keep the fish healthy in your aquarium, one of the most important things you can do is to monitor the pH level. This is a measure of the of the acidity and alkalinity of the water. Freshwater fish usually require a pH of 7.0, which is neutral, in order to stay healthy. However, some freshwater fish, like those that come from the Amazon, do require a lower pH balance to stay healthy. Rather than using potentially harmful chemicals, there is a simple method for adjusting the pH balance of your aquarium.

Things You'll Need

  • African driftwood
  • Metal pot
  • Water
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Instructions

  1. African Driftwood

    • 1

      Purchase a piece of African driftwood. You can order African driftwood through online stores or even at your local pet stores. Call ahead to be sure your pet store has the driftwood in stock. Many stores will make a special order if their stock is low.

    • 2

      Take a metal pot that is large enough to hold the driftwood and pour enough water into it to cover the wood.

    • 3

      Place the African driftwood inside and arrange it so that it is fully submerged. Allow the driftowwd to sit underwater overnight.

    • 4

      Clean off any remaining dirt on the driftwood after the overnight soaking. Use running water to help clean off any residual debris.

    • 5

      Place the driftwood inside your aquarium. The driftwood naturally reduces the pH level of the water inside the aquarium because it is rich in tannins, which is naturally acidic. These tannins leech into the water and lowers the pH balance. The driftwood also serves as a nice decoration.

    Peat Moss

    • 6

      Get a bit of peat moss. This usually grows in wet boggy swamp-like areas and is decayed vegetable matter. If you live in a dry arid region, then go to a gardening store and buy some. Peat moss is naturally acidic and will lower the pH balance in your tank.

    • 7

      Put the peat moss in a small net bag that can be put into the aquarium. Don't put too much in at first, a handful will do.

    • 8

      Place the bag inside of your aquarium. Wait for a day or two and measure the pH balance of your tank. If it is still too high then add a bit more of the peat moss into the bag. If it's too low then remove some.