PH level?

[karisha]

WHat is the proper PH level to put an Axolotl in a tank? I am concerned because I have another tank with Fish and Petsmart said the PH was too high, although they could not tell by how much. They gave me some stuff to put into the tank to lower the levels and my elephant nose died because of it. This has me a little scared. I'm supposed to be picking up 2 axies today, and want to make sure everything is ok for them. Should I introduce them slowly to the water, or what are your suggestions?

 

[jennifer]

For fish, there is no one "right" pH, it really depends on the kind of fish. But trying to change the pH of any tank is a tricky business and, as you noticed, can cause disaster if it's not done right.

I live in an area with naturally high pH and hard water. I raised axolotls with no problems. Most newts and sals are rather tolerant of various pHs. I think you'll be fine. Yes, you do need to adjust the axies slowly to your water.

 

[kaysie]

buy a test kit! then you can tell yourself if the water is too high or too low. Then you can adjust it naturally, with calcium sand, crushed coral, etc.

 

[crusader]

Things like seashells and white rocks that dissolve can raise the ph.

Perhaps get rainwater from the roof.