Fishkeeping - Alkalinity/Hardness Question...

JB wrote:
I just tested my tank and all is good accept the Alkalinity (KH) is
40ppm, and I know the ideal is 120-180, is there anything that I can do
to raise it, but slowly so it doesn't spike?..

Also my Water hardness shows (GH) 75ppm... Is that acceptable for sword
tail fish?

kH has been one of my pet research projects of later years due to the
fact it can be an indicator of proper calcium levels (especially in
FW).

First, I try and establish why clients kH may low be fore I throw
adjustment products at it.

*Make sure you have no "mulm" build up under decor, substrate, in your
filter (especially canister filters and sumps). This "mulm" will decay
and add acids (nitric acid) to your aquarium, constantly consuming the
ingredients of kH.

*If you use RO water you will be adding water with little kH, so minor
elements (including calcium) and electrolytes need to be added.

*Over use of peat and some driftwood decor such as Mango Wood can lower
kH

As for treatments, aragonite in a filter bag will help, but in my
opinion does react as fast as it should to spikes in acids, nor add as
much calcium as often needed.
If you have African Cichlids, aragonite or crushed coral make an
excellent substrate choice and will maintain a high kH.
My preferred method is Wonder Shells as these add calcium,
electrolytes, and trace elements including magnesium. these products
react well to normal acid spikes and also aid in aquarium Redox, but
they are not a cure all to other problems such as poor husbandry.
I do NOT recommend baking soda!

Here is my article dealing with kH and a much more in depth discussion
of this subject:
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/AquariumKH.html

Carl