How can I raise KH/GH in my goldfish and Betta aquariums?

Question

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 7.0-7.2 for the Betta. Their aquariums are now stable at 7.5 for the goldfish and 7.0 for the Betta. The Kh and Gh are still low. Kh at 6 percent and Gh at 3.5 percent. The water is very soft here in NYC. Is there any other way to raise the hardness without baking soda which will raise the pH? I've already added aquarium salt too, if that affects it.

Our tap water fluctuates pH from 6.0 to 7.0. I found this out when I changed my Betta's water and he stopped swimming around. I checked the pH and it was down to 6.2 from 7.0. 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?

Answer 1

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

Answer 2

Crushed coral or dolomite in the filter. Baking soda's a temopary fix. Goldfish and betta both don't mind a neutral ph though. There is a product that I use to buffer reverse osmosis water, its called R.O. Right and Neutral Regualator by Kent Marine. Replace weekly with water changes. May help with your water. Ask a local aquarium how they deal with the soft tap water. Avoid the advice of the big stores like Petco and Petsmart, try an aquarium specialty store for advice.

Answer 3

Honestly betta, and goldfish are very tolerant to pH, and KH/GH variations. They aren't tolerant to quick changes. By changing your pH, and other water chemistry you risk causing large swings during water changes. You'll need to be careful to treat any new water with the exact same treatment. It gets more complex when you add something like a chunk of limestone to the tank. (As the limestone leeches out over time.)

KH- Increase water circulation via a bubbler, or filter. (reduces co2), More baking soda

GH- limestone, calcium carbonate

Answer 4

I agree with MM. the more junk you start pouring into the water, the more complicated you are making things, and the more likely something will go wrong. Messing around with the water can easily lead to fluctuations, and having water too soft and acid is much less harmful to the fish then unstable water of any parameter. Fish are very resilient and adapt to a wide range of conditions. When you read a fishes 'preference' it is more about what it's like in their natural habitat, not necessarily what they need to live. In my experience the people with the least problems are the ones who add the least to their tanks. for 15 years I've added nothing to my water but conditioner and have had nothing but success.

And your GH is just fine for both fish, there's no need to raise it further.