💧❓ Does My Fish Need Special Water Parameters or Temperature?

Every fish species has its own specific water requirements. Meeting these needs is essential for keeping them healthy and stress-free.

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🌡️ Temperature

• Fish are ectothermic (cold-blooded), so water temperature directly affects metabolism and lifespan.
• Tropical freshwater fish (like tetras, cichlids, plecos) generally need 74–80°F (23–27°C).
• Goldfish and temperate species prefer 65–72°F (18–22°C).
• ✅ Use a reliable aquarium heater and thermometer to keep temperatures stable.

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⚖️ pH Balance

• Different fish thrive in different pH ranges.
• Example:
  • Amazonian species (discus, cardinal tetras, plecos) prefer slightly acidic water (pH 6.0–7.0).
  • African cichlids from rift lakes like Malawi or Tanganyika need alkaline water (pH 7.8–8.6).
• ✅ Always test your water before adding fish to ensure it matches their natural needs.

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🧪 Ammonia, Nitrite & Nitrate

• Ammonia and nitrite should always be at 0 ppm — even small amounts are toxic.
• Nitrates should be kept under 40 ppm (ideally lower for sensitive species).
• ✅ Regular water changes, filtration, and cycling are essential.

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🧂 Hardness (GH & KH)

• GH (General Hardness): Measures dissolved calcium & magnesium.
• KH (Carbonate Hardness): Buffers pH to keep it stable.
• Example:
  • Livebearers (guppies, mollies) thrive in harder water.
  • Tetras and corydoras prefer softer water.

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📊 TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)

• TDS measures the total concentration of dissolved substances (minerals, salts, organic matter) in water.
• In nature, TDS varies greatly by region:
  • Some South American rivers have extremely low TDS, even as low as 2–20 ppm — crystal-clear, mineral-poor waters where delicate species like wild-caught discus and cardinal tetras live.
  • Other regions, such as African rift lakes, have very high TDS, reflecting the mineral-rich environment needed for cichlids.
• ✅ Knowing your fish’s origin helps you decide whether RO/DI water, remineralization, or local tap water is best.

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🐟 Wild-Caught vs. Captive-Bred Fish

• Many hobbyists like to mix and match fish, water parameters, and wild vs. captive-bred.
• Wild-caught fish usually need water close to their natural habitat to thrive long-term.
• Captive-bred fish, especially after years in aquariums, often adapt well to local tap water.
• ✅ Always research whether your fish are wild or captive-bred before setting up their tank.

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🌱 Why It Matters

• Wrong parameters = stressed fish, aggression, and disease.
• Proper water chemistry = healthy fish, better colors, natural behavior.

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📝 Final Tip

Not all aquariums are the same — what works for one setup may not work for another. Always research your fish before buying them — not just because they look cool, but because you’re responsible for their long-term care.