Water testing
...when, how and why
It is almost impossible to overstate the importance of water quality to fish health. Equally it is impossible to assess water quality by simply looking. The only way that we can be assured that conditions are right for fish is to regularly test for the important water parameters.
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pH
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Test every week - more frequently if the system has been disturbed or medicated. The time of day when ponds are tested is important because of the effects of photosynthesis |
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ammonia
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Test every week - more frequently if the system has been disturbed or medicated |
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nitrite (NO2-)
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Test every week - more frequently if the system has been disturbed or medicated |
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nitrate (NO3-)
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Once monthly in freshwater. every week with marines, corals and invertebrates |
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general and alkaline hardness
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Once monthly |
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salinity
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Weekly in marine tanks |
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ORP (redox)
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Optional in fresh and marine - of more use in marine tanks |
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conductivity
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Optional |
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copper
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Necessary when copper treatments are used |
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phosphate
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Optional - but used in conjunction with nitrate testing it gives an measurement of background pollution. fresh water & marine |
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organic pollution
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Monthly. |
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dissolved oxygen
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Use when water temperatures increase. It is important to try and take a sample from within or under the filter media if possible, as filter levels may be lower than in the pond. |
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Additional tests
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Other mineral tests are available for marine. i.e. calcium etc. Go to specialist dealer for information |
It is important to keep a record of water test results, as this will highlight seasonal fluctuations and help pin-point water quality problems in the event of disease outbreaks.
Water testing equipment is available in test kit form using either liquid reagents or tablets. In general these are accurate enough for hobbyists uses. Electronic equipment is more accurate, but somewhat more expensive.
