Just as we need clean air, free of harmful products to breath; fish need clean water to survive. Clean water is not just the clear color, but also includes water quality.
Testing water quality should be a priority for your aquarium.
The important levels that need to be tested are:
1. pH – A pH level of close to 6.5 is the ideal pH for MOST fish.
2. hardness – Most fish require soft water. Hardness test will measure the amount of calcium and magnesium.
3. alkalinity – This measures the compounds that stabilize pH.
4. nitrite (NO2)– This compound is highly poisonous. Nitrite is more toxic than nitrate. High levels of nitrite require water change. The addition of fluids with zeolite will also help.
5. nitrate (NO3)– High levels of nitrate can be harmful over time. Again, water change will help; along with adding fluids with zeolite.
6. ammonia (NH3)– This is another highly poisonous compound. Again, water change will help; along with adding fluids with zeolite.
Individual strips can be purchased to measure each value, but it is easier and more economical to purchase a kit that measures everything at one time. A kit, like the Mardel Master Aquarium Test Kit (pictured above) measures all the levels.
In the breaking in phase of you aquarium, you should check the levels everyday. Later, check levels every 1-2 weeks. This will ensure proper water quality and healthy fish.