Can glowlight tetras adapt to higher ph?

Question

My pH is about 7.8. I heard they need slightly acidic water. Can they adapt to more alkaline water? Or should I try mucking with the pH level?

Answer 1

They can easily adapt to higher pH water conditions with no problem at all. In fact, odds are very good the tanks at your local fish stores have a very similar pH to your tank and they are already comfortable in that pH range.

I would suggest you not at all attempt to adjust your pH. 7.8 is a perfectly fine pH for all but the very most sensitive fish and even then usually only when breeding them is a consideration. You're just fine, don't change it.

MM

Answer 2

I wouldn't mess with the chemestry unless you really know what you re doing. 7.8 is a little high so some safe and easy things to do to lower it are adding driftwood and peet. These things will naturally lower the ph some, but not a lot unless in larger quantity. They also do so slowly making the transition easier on the fish.

You might also want to check for the presence of dead snail shells as these raise ph. To test your rocks clean and dry them, then drip vinegar on them. If it bubbles, leave them out of your tank to drop ph.

Also check the ph of your water source. If it is lower than your tank than something in your tank and raising the level.