Have a question? It may have already been answered. Find answers to support questions often asked by picking a category from the drop down menu below.
Can't find an answer to your question here? Ask us a new one. One of the experts from our technical support staff will be happy to promptly respond. You can also call 888-SEACHEM if you would like to speak directly with a a technical support representative, or check our discussions board.
Q: I have a Malawi 135 gallon tank that is filled with 7.2 pH tap. I purchased some Tanganyika Buffer, and added 1/2 cup to the tank. When I checked the pH, it was 9.0. I am concerned about this type of sudden PH change. Is it normal? Is is harmful? How should I add the solution? I usually do 50% water changes weekly. How would you recommend adding Seachem Cichlid Salt and/or Tanganyika Buffer to my tank safely?
A: Ideally, the pH of the environment should be adjusted accordingly before introducing your first fish. If this is not possible, then I recommend to add the product slowly until the desired pH is reached if there is fish already in the aquarium. I recommend to use Malawi/Victoria Buffer instead of Tanganyika Buffer as they are a different blend of salts. The ingredients in Malawi/Victoria Buffer will result in a pH between 7.8 - 8.4. The ingredients in Tanganyika Buffer will result in a pH between 9.0- 9.4. Once the pH is adjusted to the desired range and you perform regular maintenance/partial water exchanges, you should exchange some of your existing 9.0? pH water for freshly mixed 9.0? water. If you do not have the ability to pre-mix water with Tanganyika Buffer or Malawi/Victoria Buffer and Cichlid Lake Salt before performing partial water exchanges, then I recommend to do smaller increment partial water exchanges and mix the buffer and salt directly in the aquarium as you do not have any other options. Be aware that Malawi cichlids prefer a pH in the range of 7.8 - 8.4.