Most folks on this list agree that the peat thing is definitely both easy and effective, as well as in some enigmatic way beneficial to the overall vitality and breedability of the fish. I have never heard that just letting water age would drop pH or reduce hardness, except when that water is in a "living" system involving both flora and fauna. Bob Dixon ------------------------------------------------------------------------- This is the apistogramma mailing list, apisto@majordomo.pobox.com. For instructions on how to subscribe or unsubscribe or get help, email apisto-request@majordomo.pobox.com. Search http://altavista.digital.com for "Apistogramma Mailing List Archives"!