[stefnikole]

The pH in my 20gal tank is sitting at 6.4 and I cannot seem to get it to rise. My new tank has been cycling for almost 2 months. I've tried using a neutral regular to get it to rise to at least 7.0. I think I read somewhere, a while ago, that CO2 can help it rise but I'm not sure if that's true. Can anyone give me suggestions or point me in the right direction?

 

[FishnFins]

Why are you trying to get it to rise? Your PH is about perfect where it's at! Most people try to get their PH to where yours is. 6.4 is about perfect if not optimum for most tropical fish. Also CO2 tends to lower ph.

 

[Okedokey]

I disagree. 6.4 is on the bottom end of nitrification bacteria efficiency. 6.6 - 7 is better inmo. Increasing kH by adding sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) at approx 0.2 teaspoons per 10G per 0.1 increment ph rise. So I would raise the tank pH by adding a teaspoon of BS and then prorata for water changes. Also add a teaspoon of epsom salts for magnesium.

 

[stefnikole]

I disagree. 6.4 is on the bottom end of nitrification bacteria efficiency. 6.6 - 7 is better inmo. Increasing kH by adding sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) at approx 0.2 teaspoons per 10G per 0.1 increment ph rise. So I would raise the tank pH by adding a teaspoon of BS and then prorata for water changes. Also add a teaspoon of epsom salts for magnesium.

I'm the same why I prefer mine to be just a little bit higher. My old tank sat at 7. For some reason I was lucky and never really had to alter the pH in that tank. I will try what you suggested. Thank you.

 

[BraveBuc]

What is your KH out of the tap? Maybe 6.4 is slowing the cycle down a little but I'd rather not have to worry about adjusting my ph every time I did a water change. Though maybe you might want to raise your KH a little anyways if its close to 0.

 

[greaser84]

The fastest and cheapest way to manipulate your KH/PH is baking soda. Although I wouldn't change your water parameter's unless its for a particular reason.

 

[Diana]

Add baking soda until the KH is over 3 degrees for sure, and more like 5 or higher.
The bacteria need the carbon from carbonates, and the pH needs to be over 7.0.
You are trying to grow the bacteria as fast as possible, they need the best possible conditions.

Once the fishless cycle is done you can do a big water change and set the new water at whatever the fish like.
The bacteria are not so active when the pH is under 6.5 (if that is what your fish need), but they will be active enough. They just won't be growing and reproducing really well.

 

[Okedokey]

Agreed with Diana. Its not a fish tank at the moment, its a bioreactor.