Test Kits For The Fresh Water Aquarium

Fish are sensitive creatures. It is hard to tell if something is wrong since fish aren't able to talk and then it just dies. One way to check on the health of those living in the aquarium is by using a test kit.

There are quite a few on the market and some fish experts recommend using a combination to check the water.

The first is called the ammonia test kit. This should be done regularly because ammonia is harmful to the fish. You will get some water out of the aquarium and let the machine do the rest. The level of ammonium must be at a low level or zero. Should it be to high, the water should be replaced even if there isn't that much dirt yet on the glass.

Next is called the KH & GH test kit. This stands for calcium and magnesium and the level of normalcy depends on the species of fish. Goldfish which are frequently purchased by pet owners should stay between 100 to 200 KH & GH.

Another thing to watch out for is the pH level. There are two types available namely the pH high and the low range. The pet owner only has to buy one and then look at the indicator if the levels are normal. Again this depends on the type of fish kept in the aquarium.

There is also the Nitrate Test Kit. This is considered to be the best one around next to the Ammonia version which can tell when it is time to change the water in the aquarium. For freshwater fish like the goldfish, it should stay under 40 ppm.

If you have live plants inside the aquarium with the fish, it will be a good idea to buy a phosphate test kit. This will alert you if there is an overgrowth of algae that could be harmful for those living there. After changing the water, results should report that the phosphate content is close to zero.

No one can say that there is one kit out there over the others. This is because each one is designed to watch over something and unless someone is able to invent an all around version, fish owners will have to buy and use a combination to ensure the welfare of those living in the aquarium.