Stupid Question, I'm sure..

Hey guys,
Since i was FW and now have turned to brackish (sg 1.015) i was wondering if i need to start using SW testing strips for pH and such?

Thanks!

 

"The asking of a question is the beginning of learning" therefore, there are no stupid questions. I wouldn't use strips, I would use a Hydrometer or Refractometer. Yes you should be testing for salinity and depending on what you intend for the tank; Alkalinity, PH, Calc and Magnesium.

 

I wouldn't use strips you would be better off with some decent test kits

 

I have a hydrometer, and my salinity is sitting at 1.015. I have a pH test kit, but does salinity affect that? Or do i need to buy a kit that is specifically for SW?

 

As long as it goes all the way up to 8.4 or so, you'll be fine as saltwater won't impact the Hydrogen reading. However, "fine" is a relative terms as test strips are notoriously incorrect. As mentioned previously, you're better off getting a titration type test kit.

 

agreed on test strips being trash. a good liquid test is what you need.

a refractometer for SG.

I would suggest a pH pen for pH reading bc the tests are hard to read (IMO).

I use one of these.

 

Thanks for the good info!