What is changing my PH

The two forms of hardness we use in tanks can be very confusing - GH or general is Ca++ and Mg++ (calcium and magnesium ions), while KH or alkalinity is HCO3- and CO3-- (bicarbonate and carbonate ions). Both are reported as ppm (or mg/l) of CaCO3 -note that the equivalent compound of both forms is the reporting standard. Because of the common occurance of both sides together in componds, lots of folks have difficulty with the separate concepts.

Reading happychem's explanation as OG suggested would be good. If there are questions after that, post back here and someone will try to help.
 
Should I maybe have been looking for an alklinity test? or does it say KH on the pacakage usually?
 
Thanks, couldn't find Big Als, but I checked Liveaquaria.com so now I have an idea about what to look for so I think I will head out to the far away lfs that seems to have everything you need - but is not located near any thing else that I might need to be out for - I am sure they will have it there. And if not, at least I know where I can get it on line.
 
Current levels

Ok, I got the KH test, and the fish.
I need help figuring out what is causing this problem and if it can be fixed.

37 gallons
KH = 17.9 ppm or 1 'dKH
PH = 6
Ammonia = 0
Nitrite = 0
Nitrate = 10-15

The fish have been in the tank since Sat afternoon. There is a ropefish, 3 gouramis, and a snail.
 
Oh yeah, and to get to the point of adding the fish, I did a 66% water change, then the following day a %50 and then the following day another %50 to get the nitrates down.
 
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