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ePaper created 2014-06-17, 12:17:27 | version 1.31.00
6 Some important water parameters and their desired values Parameter Importance Desired value pH value All creatures in aquariums react sensitively towards pH value changes. Depending on the species kept, the pH value should be in the slightly acidic or a neutral (7) to slightly alkaline (8) range. Sudden pH value changes (such as rapidly sinking pH value) are very dangerous. 6 – 8 Carbonate hardness (KH) The KH is defined by the hydrogen carbonate ion concentration in the water. Sufficiently high KH (at least 6°dKH) reliably buffers dangerous pH value variations. 6 – 10°dKH Ammonium/ Ammonia (NH4/NH3) Waste and breakdown product, a component of the nitrogen cycle and at the same time a dangerous fish poison! Good biological activity provided, it is ideally not detectable. < 0.5 mg/l (better 0 mg/l) Nitrite (NO2) Waste and breakdown product, a component of the nitrogen cycle and also a dangerous fish poison! Good biological activity provided, it is ideally not detectable. < 0.5 mg/l (better 0 mg/l) Total hardness (GH) The GH is formed by the entirety of alkaline earth ions (mainly calcium and magnesium) and serves as an important mineral source. 5 – 15°dGH Nitrate (NO3) Breakdown product and component of the nitrogen cycle. Hardly toxic plant nutrient that, however, supports algae growth in higher concentrations. < 50 mg/l Phosphate (PO4) Waste and breakdown product. Hardly toxic plant nutrient that, however – especially in higher concentrations –, is the most important support for uncontrolled algae growth. < 1 mg/l Copper (Cu) Heavy metal already toxic in low concentrations, but also essential trace element as well as effective agent in some treatments and biocides. < 0.1 mg/l Silicate (SiO3) Diatoms are characterized by their silicate containing cell walls. Silicate levels above 2 mg/l in the aquarium water support their growth. < 2 mg/l Oxygen level (O2) Essential for all aquarium inhabitants for breathing, but it is also important for breakdown processes (such as uneaten food, fish waste, plant remain- ders). It is normal that the saturation changes according to the time of day due to photo synthesis. Good water agitation and not exceedingly warm water support saturation. > 4 mg/l (better > 6 mg/l) A sera tip: Certain fish species (e.g. discus, angelfish or African cichlids) require water parameters that differ from these general desired values, especially for breeding. Your retailer knows about the species specific data concerning the optimal water hardness, the suitable pH value and other conditions (e.g. oxygen requirement).