Aquarium Water Testing Guide for Australian Fishkeepers
By Melbourne Tropical Team ยท 1 min read
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What to test, how often, and how to interpret ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, GH and KH readings.
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Why test your water?
Most fish health problems trace back to water quality. A liquid test kit is the single best investment after your tank and filter.
The key parameters
Ammonia and nitrite should always read zero in an established tank. Nitrate should stay below 20-40 ppm, controlled with water changes. pH, GH and KH define how hard and acidic your water is and should match your fish's needs. Use our parameter converter to compare units.
How often to test
Test daily during cycling, weekly once established, and any time fish look unwell or after adding new stock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I test aquarium water?
Weekly for established tanks, daily during cycling, and immediately if fish show signs of stress.
Are test strips accurate?
Strips are convenient but less accurate than liquid reagent kits, which are recommended for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate.