ph and Nitrate question

[Star_Rider]

Ph is generally best if you leave it alone. in some cases you may need to bump it in some cases lower it.
most fish can adapt to a stable Ph.

that said.pH can be altered in the tank by objects in the tank.
what substrate you have (ie crushed coral will raise the pH) some decorations can also alter th Ph. ie driftwood may leach tannins which can lower pH sea shells can release calcium which can raise the pH.Tap water should be tested to see if it is stable after 24-48 hr of standing(some municipalities may add chemicals which can alter the pH temporarily)

 

[Coler]

not sure about your testing ; what kind of kit are you using ?

generally, higher nitrates + other dissolved organic compounds + passage of time = lower Ph/Ph crash (= bad of course lol).

water change will reduce nitrates and replenish those ions responsible for holding stable Ph = higher Ph, unless you are buffering up in which case it may take some few hours or more before your Ph stabilises again.

As already said, don't sweat your Ph; stability is much more important for most fish.

As already said your stocking is very problematic.