The Easiest Way to Increase the PH of a Marine Aquarium

How acidic or alkaline an aquarium is directly correlates to the health of the plants and animals living in it. Different fish require different pH levels to thrive, so keep that in mind when selecting fish that will be housed together.

  1. About pH Levels

    • Water's pH is measured on a scale of 1-14. Seven is considered neutral; any reading below that is considered acidic, and any number above it is considered basic. An aquarium's pH levels are affected by things like fish respiration and waste and plant photosynthesis.

    The Easiest Way

    • Performing a partial water change is the easiest and safest way to adjust a tank's pH level. Use tap water --- which is treated to be slightly alkaline --- to help balance out an acidic tank. Siphon out or otherwise remove 20 percent to 30 percent of the water in the tank, then refill it with fresh tap water. Continue to check the pH in the days and weeks that follow, and repeat partial water changes as needed.

    Other Ways

    • If you need an additional alkaline boost, add a piece of coral skeleton or a seashell, which safely increase the water's pH while providing a touch of decoration to the tank, according to the website The First Tank Guide. Commercial chemicals are also available to increase the pH level in an aquarium, most in the form of powders that are sold at pet stores.

    Warning

    • Although fish definitely benefit from water with the correct pH level, rapid swings in pH are even more harmful than incorrect levels. When you adjust the pH level, do so gradually over the course of a couple of weeks.