[RhomZilla]

I have a question. I recently bought a PH tester kit for the first time and decided to test out 2 of my tanks. The 30 gal which one of my Rhom is in, is at a perfect 7.0. Now my empty 125 gal has a PH balance of 6.0 and used to house (5) 5" RBs perfectly without any signs of stress. I've had the same water in the tank before and after I sold the RBs and now trying to get the tank ready for baby Caribas.

I've used packets of Instant 7.0 PH Balance product, Water Hardener, PH Up, changed water and kept testing to check for changes. But after a week of checking, its stays at a PH of 6.0. Is there anything else I can do to raise the level? I want my new Ps to be happy when they're introduced to their new and long term home.

 

[GARGOYLE]

My experiences with raising and lowering ph have not been good. It would always bounce around which caused more stress for my fish. I have also realized that my larger tanks have lower ph than my smaller tanks, all I do is slowly introduce any fish no matter what tank they go in, and keep it at whatever level the ph is at. Whatever you do, good luck!

 

[Judazzz]

I wouldn't mess with the water perimeters when everything seems to be fine: it's tempting the gods......

You said your reds didn't seem to be affected: were they tank raised? Tank raised fish are often more tolerable to "abnormal" water perimeters (ie. not like their natural environment in the wild), than wildcaught, so that's why I'm asking.
Your cariba are probably wildcaught, right? If so, I would try adjust the PH a little, but only before they are introduced to the tank (even though they'll probably do just fine...). I wouldn't recommend altering it once the fish are established (it's not worth the risk, unless they show severe signs of stress continuously)!

 

[RhomZilla]

I've heard about huge tanks usually having lower PH balances because of the wide areas and different water space which can cause an imbalance throughout the water perimeters.

Judazz, I understand your opinion on keeping the tank as it is because the previous residence had no problem with adjusting. But would it matter if a one-third of the water was taken out and replaced, treated and left cold?? (Since tank was empty, I pulled all electricity from it). Im also getting tank raised Caribas and not wild caught (if that makes any difference).

I want to make sure the PH balance would be comfortable enough for the new residents. I just dont want to end up wasting $$$ by relying on past luck.