Re: pH

[Kim Hay <khay@v-wave.com>]

Just a couple of comments on some of the products that have been mentioned in
this string. The manufacturers of Discus Buffer (which is high in phosphates)
also make a product called Acid Buffer which is phosphate free. It has the same
effectiveness as the Discus Buffer without the algae side effects. Its easy to
spot on the shelf - the crystals are bright pink! The Waters of the World line
may seem expensive but do get good results.

George Richter wrote:

> I think Phillip made a very good point about the soft water.  I use the
> Discus buffer but because my water (mostly RO with some tap) is soft
> already, I do not have to use much buffer to get it stable.  If you use
> no buffering agent it is hard to stabalize the soft water. Thanks for
> the extreme phosphate warning though.  I never imagined it could
> actually kill the fish.  I have tried the peat things and the PH just
> seems to wander all over.  I am suprised to hear about problems with
> "Waters of the World".  I have heard good things about it but I thought
> it too expensive to be practical.  Anybody else use that?
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------------