effects of low pH?

[CeeGee]

Can anyone explain what low pH will do to fish and corals?

I calibrated my new pH probe tonight (twice) and my pH is running at 7.6 currently which seems a little low. Can calibration fluid go bad? This seems awfully low. I have typically run low in my last tank 7.8-8.0 but never below 7.8.

Thanks for your help,
C.G.

 

[crvz]

Calibration fluid can go bad over time, how old is the stuff you're using?

My tank runs pretty low, usually in the 7.8-8.0 range as well, but I still have pretty good growth on stony corals. My understanding is that depleted pH can stunt coral growth somewhat, as the coral has to buffer the local pH in order to calcify (and that takes more energy), but I've not much insight into how it affects fish.

I have noticed my tank drop below 7.6 during dinner parties (with many people in the house, increasing CO2 concentration in the environment around the tank) and when the weather keeps the HVAC system offline for days at a time.

 

[CeeGee]

The calibration fluid is a couple years old. I bought a bunch of it and haven't bought any since.

I will get some new and redo. I guarantee that it will still be low it has always ran a little low in my tanks.

 

[crvz]

Yeah, I'd get some new packs of calibration fluid and try again. Probably nothing to worry about (a bit of a low pH), but it'd be nice to be certain.

 

[CeeGee]

It is up to 7.72 today and it was 7.59 last night and my lights haven't come on yet but the small power compact in the sump is on (reverse schedule).

 

[luther1200]

Like stated above I know corals will take up Ca/Alk better at a higher Ph. I'm not exactly sure at what levels it becomes detrimental though. With fish I am not sure, but it could have a similar effect. (not allowing them to absorb what they need in the water). But I don't now that for sure. It is an interesting question though, maybe somebody can fill us in.

 

[CeeGee]

I am going to attempt dripping Kalk to see if that helps. I am really worried that I am going to mess something up. I am afraid it will increase my pH too quickly. anyone have any tips on how to go about this safely?

 

[crvz]

If you drip kalk (as in, DRIP), I don't think you'll run into pH change issues. I think you'll sooner have precipitation of calcium/alkalinity from ODing on kalkwasser, which would be the bigger threat.

 

[luther1200]

I drip 1 drip per 2-3 seconds. I don't know much about your setup though. But that is what I do.

 

[nnahler]

Low pH (acidic) will severely mess with the flesh of your livestock...it also plays havoc with maintaining proper Calcium/Ak