Gas exchange info

[madrhino]

Hey guys,
My tank has a very high alk and a low ph. I know this is alittle strange, but i tested three times with differetn kits. I was curious as to what could be causing this. I've heard that it may not have a high enough gas exchange. Would I just add some air stones in my sump to fix this? Has any one had this problem or have any advice? Thanks!! [/quote]

 

[randy holmes-farley]

What are the values? How do you supplement alkalinity?

Several things could be causing it:

1. If you are using Seachem salt, much of the alkalinity could be coming from borate.

2. If you are using a CaCO3/CO2 reactor, you should expect a low pH even when the alkalinity is high.

3. If the room is loaded with excess CO2, then the pH can be low even when the alkalinity is high:

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/ ... /short.htm