Water parameters for breeding

[Ggz123]

Hi everyone; currently in Cancun on vacation as I submit this question.

I have several discus (all from Kenny C.) that have either paired up or are showing signs. I am currently raising 12 carnation Turks lsurvived out of about a spawn of maybe 60 eggs. They are now approx 2 months old and are growing like weeds. The problem is the spawns from my 2 pairs are weeks between spawns and the eggs mold quickly....both pairs are past the new parent syndrome and appear to be eager to raise the fry.

My question; should I look at mixing RO water into my breeding tanks? I have googled the topic and am a bit confused.

My Ph from the tap (after aging 24 hours with heaters and Prime) is 7.6. My TDS readings are about 150. I. Ant remember the GH or KH readings and won’t be able to post readings until next week. Any input is greatly appreciated. Is there a standard go to ratio or formula that some one can provide in plain English about mixing RO to tap water for breeding?

All the discus are doing well with the tap water parameters but many are approaching 5.5 inches and showing signs of pairing. Thx again for any input.

[RogueDiscus]

Your ratio will depend on the hardness of your source and RO. I try to get my tds down to 60 ppm or so. At least below 80. I don't worry about pH and since I'm on a well with high KH, I'm sure it's close to 8. The fish don't care if they're used to it. Folks will sometimes give a mild dose of formalin (Rid-Ich) to a tank when a pair is looking to spawn, to reduce fungus. I've done that but do like to change the water again before the spawn. Just my thoughts.
Steve

[Second Hand Pat]

Your ratio will depend on the hardness of your source and RO. I try to get my tds down to 60 ppm or so. At least below 80. I don't worry about pH and since I'm on a well with high KH, I'm sure it's close to 8. The fish don't care if they're used to it. Folks will sometimes give a mild dose of formalin (Rid-Ich) to a tank when a pair is looking to spawn, to reduce fungus. I've done that but do like to change the water again before the spawn. Just my thoughts.
Steve

Steve is spot on and what I use with my wilds. The lower TDS gives you soft water. I would suggest not worrying about ph, just soft water.
Pat

[Ggz123]

Ok, I think my confusion is relating ph to TDS. I was under the impression that soft water has low ph, but apparently that is not always the case correct? If I understand correctly, I should experiment with what ratio ( RO to tap) gets my TFS to 80 or less correct?

[Second Hand Pat]

Ok, I think my confusion is relating ph to TDS. I was under the impression that soft water has low ph, but apparently that is not always the case correct? If I understand correctly, I should experiment with what ratio ( RO to tap) gets my TFS to 80 or less correct?

Yes, do you know the TDS of your tap water? Try a ratio of 3/4 RO to 1/4 tap and measure the TDS and slowly add more tap as needed. The TDS of your RO should be around 7 to 11 TDS. I found with my tap water of 180 to 230 (higher in the summer) that a ratio of 2/3 RO to 1/3 tap give me a TDS of around 70.
Pat

[Ggz123]

Yes, do you know the TDS of your tap water? Try a ratio of 3/4 RO to 1/4 tap and measure the TDS and slowly add more tap as needed. The TDS of your RO should be around 7 to 11 TDS. I found with my tap water of 180 to 230 (higher in the summer) that a ratio of 2/3 RO to 1/3 tap give me a TDS of around 70.
Pat

My TDS a erGes about 160. So maybe 1:1 ratio would be better?

[Second Hand Pat]

My TDS a erGes about 160. So maybe 1:1 ratio would be better?

Try it. You can always add more RO if needed.
Pat

[Ggz123]

Okay, thx my friend and to every else who replied

Any RO unit recommendations for 100 gallon per day?

[RogueDiscus]

I use Bulk Reef Supply's 4-stage RO only unit. You don't need the DI.

https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/brs-4-stage-ro-only-system-75gpd-2.html

[Ggz123]

Okay. I assume a float valve from BRS is also a good thing to order?

[RogueDiscus]

Yes, if it will connect to your storage container.

[Ggz123]

Ok I ordered the 4 stage 100 gallon unit and float valve. I also ordered a piece that connects to the feed line under the sink. I am probably set but if you can think of any other accessories to have please let me know. Thx to all again. Btw, just finished swimming with dolphins. Super fun.

[RogueDiscus]

If it's not included, you want to order the back-flush valve. It goes on the waste line, restricting flow, and flushes the RO membrane increasing it's life. Every couple weeks/months/? you close it for 15-30 minutes to "clean" your RO filter.

[Ggz123]

One more question, does Seachem Prime need to be added, or if it is added, will that raise the TDS significantly?

[RogueDiscus]

Folks use prime to deal with chlorine and chloramines. I'm on a well, so not sure. Hopefully someone else will chime in. BTW, many folks buy Seachem's Safe, which is Prime in a concentrated powder form. Much cheaper.