Habitat - Indoor :: PH level?

[jdub1107]

Did a search for pH and didn't find any info. I was wondering what the pH level should be for turtles. I got 2 bubblers and just found out that it will raise my pH level. I don't want to use them if it raises my pH out of range. Thanks.

[marisa]

Different species have different requirements, some are more sensitive to ph levels than others. RES are fairly tolerant--a ph of 7.0 is considered to be neutral and would be OK. Below 7 and the water is increasingly acidic the lower the reading. The higher the reading above 7, the more alkaline. If anything, water that's a touch toward the acid is better--slightly acidic water inhibits the growth of bad bacteria, among other things.

[jdub1107]

My normal tap water pH is around 7.8. So I guess I won't be using the bubblers.

[bradhart]

you can get water conditioners that lower the pH level.

[TexasJagsFan]

Bradhart-

What's the normal pH level for a turtle aqaurium? I think mine is a little high.

[bradhart]

I've heard 7.0 is normal, but 6.8-6.9 is okay too. better to have it a little lower than a little higher.

[marisa]

TJF, look at my post above.

[TexasJagsFan]

Yeah but I didn't know if it was different for turtles. My pH stays about 7.4. I know this is high, but it never seems to lower at all.

[bradhart]

LoL marisa... I knew I read it somewhere... Just didn't realize it was the last post I read. lol

[marisa]

TJF, that info is for turtles. You can add things (one is called PH Down). It came with the PH testing kit I bought, but I've never used it. I think there are more natural alternatives as well.

[TexasJagsFan]

Should I try to lower it, or just leave it be?

[marisa]

RES can tolerate a fairly wide ph level range. I wouldn't be that concerned about a 7.4 reading (I don't check the ph level of my RES's water very often). I'd be more concerned about the ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels (I do check them regularly).

[TexasJagsFan]

Thanks.

[tweet]

PEAT MOSS is a safe and effective way to lower pH. Having slightly acidic water (6.5-6.9) is a great way to help stave off fungal and bacterial problems. Depending on the type of filtration you have, you can add Peat Moss or Peat Moss Granules (in a filter media bag) to your filter. Keep checking your pH, the peat moss will eventually have to be replaced, and you don't want your pH to drop below 6.5. WARNING - be sure to rinse off peat before using it in your tank. It will discolor the water. While it's not exactly aesthetically pleasing, it is better for the turtles.

"Blackwater Extract," used for lowering the pH for fish tanks needing acidic conditions, is another recommendation to safely lower the pH.

[pkneeyahx]

in my opinion, if you are diligent in regularly cleaning out your filter, and use the appropriate carbon and ammonia inserts, you don't need to worry about pH..

I don't, and never have.

I don't suggest that all of you take my opinion into consideration, but I think there are far greater things to worry about that the pH level of your turtle water.

unless of course the pH level of the tap water or whatever the water source is you rely on is high or low.. then do something about it.