How important is PH

[fishkeeprian]

Hello, how important is PH in a reef tank? And when is it best time to test PH? I have a Salifert test kit is the sufficient for testing.

Thanks

 

[Reefing102]

PH is important for fish and coral health and the recommended range generally from 7.8-8.3. Stability is the key. Generally you will experience a higher PH with good gas exchange and a clean air source (some people pump air from outside to their tank to help). You may notice that when the entire family is in the house or as you close the house up for winter that the PH lowers due to higher CO2 content in the house. I’m not sure if that answered your question or not though.

 

[SantaMonica]

Of note is that most natural reefs are about 8.4 because of the huge amount of photosynthesis going on.

 

[jadejesus69]

I struggled for a long time maintaining a constant pH level due to high CO2 concentration in the house (around 1000ppm). Ended up running an air line from outside hooked to an air pump then injected directly to my skimmer (where significant air exchange happens) and my pH went from a 7.8 average to a stable 8.1 level. I prefer this method over any type of dosing, specially using buffers, CO2 scrubbers, etc.