I have a 20 gallon freshwater fishtank, and my PH seems to be stuck between 6.0-6.4, no matter what I do to try to get it to 7.0. I‘ve tried a couple different PH adjusters in my tank, but none of them seem to be doing much good at all. Is there anything else I can do, besides using store bought solutions, to raise my PH?
Substrates that contain calcium or magnesium, such as crushed coral or dolomite can raise your pH. Also, adding some form of calcium carbonate to your tank (like tossing in limestone, marble, or shells) can do it too.
If your water is stable at this pH, just get fish that like acidic conditions. Angelfish.
Most fish are more tolerant to a low pH, and many prefer it. pH is really only an issue if you are keeping snails or a fish with very specific requirements. In regards to fish, it is better to leave the pH as it is than to change it. Anything you add to the water to alter it will have to be re-added each time you perform a water change and can cause fluctuations that kill the fish. Driftwood is not a way to raise pH, it lowers it. If you are trying to reach 7.0 because you keep snails, offering them calcium rich foods, like flavored tums, will help avoid acid erosion on their shells.
