I was reviewing the information the site has on water quality. I noticed that according to http://www.redearslider.com/water_quality_issues.html it is desirable to maintain a slightly acidic environment as it may help prevent fungus and other problems. At the bottom of the page is a link to another site (http://www.chelonia.org/Articles/waterchemistry.htm) and according to that page it is desirable to maintain a high pH as it discourages fungi. Does anyone actually know what pH conditions discourage fungal growth? The article linked to at the bottom of the page suggests that higher pH is better and gives an example of a species of turtle particularly susceptible to fungal outbreaks that requires 8.0-8.3 pH.
A key point in that article is to maintain a stable pH. I think there are some good points there, but most of what I've read supports a slightly acidic pH -- and I think neutral would be best in a clean environment. As a solution, I would not expect a certain pH level to prevent all fungal problems. Fungus is very opportunistic and there are varieties that will thrive in whatever conditions you have in your tank. Of course certain species have different pH recommendations, but few are as hardy as RES.
From their article on soft shells, they mention "Most fungal organisms do not thrive in a slightly acidic environment." ATP, turtlecare.net and many other good sites also seem to support that conclusion.
Thanks for bringing this up, it's good to go over available information and bring in opinions.
Thanks, steve. I also like the information the article had on raising and lowering pH and other conditions without chemicals. I usually shoot for 7.0 pH and just don't worry about it if it is between 6 and 8.
Posted: Sat Jan 05, 2008 1:52 pm High or Low pH?