Question by Grace: How can I raise KH/GH in my goldfish and Betta aquariums?
I’ve used baking soda to get the proper pH in both aquariums by raising the change water to 7.5 for the goldfish and 7.-7.2 for the Betta. Their aquariums are now stable at 7.5 for the goldfish and 7. for the Betta. The Kh and Gh are withal low-toned. Kh at 6 percent and Gh at 3.5 percent. The water is very delicate hither in NYC. Is there any other way to increase the hardness without baking soda which will increase the pH? I’ve already added aquarium salt too, if that affects it.Our tap water fluctuates pH from 6. to 7.. I found this out when I changed my Betta’s water and he stopped swam around. I checked the pH and it was down to 6.2 from 7.. The pet stores around here just use tap for bettas but they have some very still bettas. They use an API product 7.5 for goldfish but it kills live plants. My goldfish has three beautiful live plants.Are seashells limestone equivalent? Do you get limestone and coral from aquatic stores?

Best answer:

Answer by magicman116
Salt will not affect any of the parameters you are trying to adjust. First let me say it’s a good idea to think very carefully before adjusting pH or hardness in a tank. It’s usually not needed. Those values you give are perfectly acceptable to the fish you are keeping. Personally I would adjust it one bit. Both bettas and goldfish can live comfortably in a wide range of pH and hardness values and unless your pH is below 6 I wouldn’t adjust it at all, but the adjustments you mention are well within the comfort range for both the betta and goldfish so if you like to adjust the water conditions, just continue what you are doing, it’s getting the job done.MM

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