Ammonia and PH levels

[JCC]

Hi, I have just got my new aquarium but as already stated am totally new at the game.

Could someone tell me what level the Ph should be and also what shold the ammonia level be?

Is there a way of testing these levels, if so how and also how do i keep the Ph and ammonia levels at the correct level?

Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[gixer]

you need test kits...

you will probarbly be best off with a mastertest kit that contains all the tests you need. these are available at most lfs (local fish shops)

you will need ammonia, nitrite, nitrate at the very least.

what fish are you planning on keeping?
ammonia and nitrite should always be at zero one you tank is cycled.

test kits are essential to anyone serious about keeping their fish healthy

 

[parker313]

Ammonia should be 0 and pH will vary depending on what kind of fish you want to keep. Some prefer lower than 7.0 and some prefer higher. You wouldn't want to keep something that needed 6.0pH with something that needed 8.0.

Chances are good that your tap water will be OK pH-wise and you won't need to do anything about it. If you need it lowered, put in a piece of driftwood. If you need it higher, try some coral/shells.

Ammonia can be kept down by ensuring that your tank is cycled before you add fish, through water changes and by removing any dead fish immediately.

HTH
--Kristin