Soft Water VS Hard Water

[nabilbb]

Hi Everyone,

I learned from this Forum that Discus Eggs wont hatch in a hard water so I started mixing RO water gradualy until it is 50% now. my question is is 50% RO water enough?

Thank you

[Second Hand Pat]

Nab, what is your target hardness? I target a GH of 4dGH (or 71.6) and a TDS of 80 or less.

[nabilbb]

I don't really have any measuring devices I am just going on Soft and hard percentage what is your advice?

[Second Hand Pat]

Well, in order to provide stable water conditions for your fish it would be best to be able to measure your water parameters especially if you are trying to determine a RO to tap ratio. I would suggest a API Master Kit for your general parameters like ammonia, nitrites, nitrates and PH, the API GH/KH test kit for GH and KH and a TDS meter for measuring TDS. :)

Once you know what your water parameters are, where you want your water parameters to be, then you can come up with a plan to get your water where you want it.

[Moon]

You really need a TDS meter to check hardness. I use straight RO for my breeders.

[nabilbb]

I use straight RO for my breeders.

Moon,
I didn't know you can go 100% RO if so 1. why do I need the TDS meter if it is 100% RO It always be the same? 2. Do you recomend going 100%Ro?
Note: I ordered the TDS meter already

Thank you

[Moon]

Quite right I have two TDS meters that just sit on a shelf. You need it if RO is mixed with tap water or if you are adding something like RO Right. I use straight RO only during spawning time. As soon as they finsh spawning and the eggs hatch I switch to regular well water.

[nabilbb]

Thanks Moon

[nabilbb]

Another Question Moon
You said you change to 100% RO during Spawing time, then you go back to tab water.
my fish spaw every week so do I bounce between RO and Tab water every week?

Thanks