Why is freshwater's pH significant?
The pH of the water determines how readily nutrients are available and how quickly toxic substances like heavy metals can dissolve in the water. On the pH scale, rivers and lakes typically fall between 5 (acidic) and 9 (basic). While the average pH of ocean water is closer to 8.2 (slightly basic). Low pH can affect the number of fish eggs that hatch as well as the survival of fish and macroinvertebrates, which are the foundation of our aquatic ecosystems.
What does a pH reading indicate?
The most crucial step is to first create a testing baseline. We can determine if something is affecting the health of the water based on that figure. For instance, fish life spans and reproduction will start to be impacted if the pH levels drop below 5 or rise above 10 (this can be caused by algae blooms).
How to use water test strips to determine the pH of freshwater?
One test strip needs to be dipped into a water sample for 10 seconds before being removed. Match the color of the pH test pad first, then the color of the test pad for total alkalinity. The test strips are safe to use and contain no hazardous chemicals. Results can be obtained in 30 seconds.
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