SeaChem's pH Buffer

[Erik Olson <eriko@wrq.com>]

On Sat, 20 Sep 1997, Kim Hay wrote:

> 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. 

Kim is referring to SeaChem's Acid Buffer.  And it does work quite well,
though I found it's very touchy to get the right amount.  I think it has
an equilibrium pH of 3.0 or so, because it stabilizes there if you put too
much in.  I used a pH meter on water change buckets to get it "right" 
(which is funny, since it's the exact sort of thing we're always telling
beginners NOT to do).  This is the stuff we used to get our first couple
nijsseni spawns (before moving to our new house which has much better
water).

I had heard somewhere that Acid Buffer is basically sulphuric acid, which
would make it equivalent to the "new" pH-Down stuff (though probably
cheaper).

  - Erik

- ---
Erik D. Olson					         amazingly, at home
eriko@wrq.com