Controlling PH in a Dwarf Shrimp aquarium.
While many Dwarf Shrimp will adapt to a wide range of water parameters there are a few Dwarf Shrimp that can be fairly demanding about the pH of their water. Some of the most popular Caridina species of shrimp, such as the Crystal Red Shrimp and the Tiger Shrimp, demand a slightly acidic pH while some of the Neocaridina species, such as the Cherry Shrimp and Blue Pearl Shrimp, prefer slightly alkaline water.
When attempting to control the PH in an aquarium it is important to note that stability is far more important than hitting an exact number. If you are trying to breed Tiger Shrimp and want a pH of 6.5 and you can easily maintain a stable pH of 6.8 but when trying to achieve a pH of 6.5 you often have fluctuations maintaining the pH of 6.8 is far more beneficial to the shrimp.
The single best way to control pH is by using substrates that buffer the water. If you are trying to raise your pH putting some crushed coral in your filter or using a small amount as a substrate addition works very well. If you are lower your pH using a substrate such as Aqua Soil Amazonia works great.
See the article PH in a Dwarf Shrimp Aquarium for more details.
Helpful References
- PH in a Dwarf Shrimp Aquarium
- Cycling Aqua Soil Amazonia
