We got a new pond built and the water has been in it for about a week. The pH is 8. Is that suitable for goldfish?
Whats a good pH for goldfish in a pond?
- Thread starter Deniz
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That should be fine, just slowly add water from your pond to the bag/bucket as you acclimate the fish so they can have time to adjust to the ph difference.
That should work out fine, but watch for chapping of the fish's scales (outer "skin"). Anytime the pH goes above 8.0 you have to really watch for chapped skin...just like humans get chapped lips. The scales on the fish (esp near his head) can become whitish and dry.
...I know, sounds funny being that they are in water but when I say dry, I mean not full of slime coat.
...I know, sounds funny being that they are in water but when I say dry, I mean not full of slime coat.
Mine runs from 8 to 8.2 and I have never had any problems. However, the chapped skin is interesting.
I would just keep an eye on them. You definitely do not want to fiddle with ph in a pond.
I would just keep an eye on them. You definitely do not want to fiddle with ph in a pond.
That chapping is a new one to me too. If you have any references on that, I would be interested in checking them out. Altough if certain fish prefer a certain pH, could it be related to the ability of their slime coat to deal with it? Guess I should do some pH research regarding cause and effect and tolerance. My pH out of the tap is around 8.5 and very hard-no goldfish problems-the main thing is to avoid frequent fluctuations-I agree w/brianfl-do not fiddle with it.
I agree with brianfl and schiejr, as long as it does not fluctuate then you will be fine. I would check the KH just to make sure the PH is stable. Just keep in mind that the higher the PH the more toxic ammonia becomes.
I would also like to see references about that chapping thing. HMMMM never heard of that one very interesting .
I would also like to see references about that chapping thing. HMMMM never heard of that one very interesting .