What should the levels be in a freshwater tank?

Ideally, freshwater aquariums have a GH between 4-8 dGH (or 70-140 ppm). All animals need some minerals, but certain fish like livebearers, goldfish, and African cichlids prefer higher GH levels. If you’re trying to breed discus or other soft water fish, you may need to reduce the GH to 3 dGH (or 50 ppm) or below.

What pH should my planted aquarium be?

between 6.5 and 7.8
Most aquarium plants do best at a pH between 6.5 and 7.8, general hardness of 50 ppm to 100 ppm and alkalinity between 3° and 8° dKH (54ppm – 140 ppm). Nitrates should be below 10 ppm and phosphates below 0.5 ppm to prevent nuisance algae from growing on leaves.

Which water is best for planted aquarium?

Planted Aquarium Water Chemistry In general, they do best in moderately soft water at a pH between 6.8 and 7.8. If your tap water is exceptionally hard or has a high pH, consider using reverse osmosis or deionized water with trace minerals and buffers added.

Do aquarium plants need to be fully submerged?

Water: All plants require water in order to live but it is especially important for aquatic plants. Some aquatic plants can also grow above the surface of the water as long as their roots are submerged, but most aquatic plants must be completely submerged in water.

What should a cycled tank read?

When the levels of nitrite and ammonia reach 0ppm (parts per million), your tank has been cycled. Now, that’s not to say you can sit back a relax. Nitrates aren’t toxic in low concentrations, but, if they reach above 20ppm (depending on the species), they’ll become toxic.

What should the nitrite level be in a freshwater tank?

However, there’s a universally safe nitrite reading for any aquarium out there: Generally, the safe level of nitrites in an aquarium is considered to be between 0 and 0.2 ppm (ml/g).

What is the best temperature for planted aquarium?

Each live aquarium plant has its own ideal temperature range. But generally speaking, most of the aquarium plants will do good in the temperature range between 72° to 82° F.

How much TDS should a planted tank have?

TDS = (60-75 ppm) + (70-120 ppm)+ 0 + 0 + 0 + Other Molecular CompoundsTDS should be between 130 and 195 ppm + what comes from compounds such as fish waste, plant fertilizers, algae treatment chemicals, etc.

How do you Remineralize RO water in a planted aquarium?

A mixture of calcium chloride, Epsom salt, and baking soda does wonders to remineralize RO water for your fish tank. For a more streamlined approach, we recommend installing remineralizing cartridges to your tank.

Why do aquarium plants turn black?

The most common reason for yellow, brown, or black leaves on aquatic plants is poor water quality. Plants are far more sensitive to their water conditions than most animals and show signs of stress when things are out of balance.

Is LED light good for aquarium plants?

LED lighting has made amazing progress in the growth of exotic plants with some higher-end fixtures, but even the most inexpensive LED fixtures specifically made for aquariums will be adequate for successful and healthy plant growth in a community aquarium.