ph normal..alk low

[nemo79]

i did my testing last night and everything is at zero but my ph is between 8.2 and 8.4 but my alk went from normal to low. unfortunately my alk test is by colour only as this

yellow - low
yellowy blue - low - norm
bluey green - normal
blue - high

well for 2 nights now it's been at yellow. i have the red sea test kit and it came with a clear liquid buffer for the alk. would you suggest i use it or try another buffer. thanks for all the help

[coral reefer]

I would try adding Kent's Super buffer-DKH. It will help maintain your ph and raise the alkalinity of your tank. Just be sure to add it slowly or your inverts and fish will feel it.

[Diver_1298]

Chemistry and the Aquarium

Read this article. IMO, The relationship between calcium and alkalinity is an important one and should not be adjusted based on a colored strip test.
It is an informative article and goes step by step on how to correct the issues that you may encounter.
I would, if at all possible, buy a good test kit, that reads out in meq/L so that you can tell if you have a problem or just an bad reaction on a stick.

This is the kit I use. Reef Status Magnesium
There are others that will work just as well. Enjoy!!

Jim