KH/Alkalinity-Test PRO Freshwater / Seawater TROPIC MARIN

KH Test Tropic Marin for Freshwater and Saltwater Aquariums

The KH Test Tropic Marin allows measuring carbonate hardness, also known as alkalinity, in freshwater and saltwater aquariums. This value corresponds to the water's buffering capacity, essential for maintaining a stable pH.

Measurement Range and Accuracy

About Carbonate Hardness

The carbonate hardness or alkalinity of a water sample refers to its buffering capacity, i.e., the water's ability to maintain a stable pH value. In aquaristics, the term carbonate hardness is commonly used, although the measurement concerns alkalinity. In this test, the two concepts are considered synonymous.

Carbonate hardness must be checked very regularly in all aquariums. Too low alkalinity can lead to a dangerous pH drop for fish and invertebrates. In coral aquariums, sufficient carbonate hardness is essential to ensure proper growth of corals. Conversely, too high alkalinity in saltwater aquariums can cause calcium deposits and harm coral growth.

In saltwater aquariums, carbonate hardness should be between 6 and 9 °dH. In freshwater aquariums, it should not be lower than 3 °dH. The optimal value depends on the species of fish and plants kept.

Package Contents

Usage and Measurement Principle

The measurement is performed by adding the KH reagent drop by drop into a water sample until the color changes from turquoise to pink. The number of drops needed directly corresponds to the carbonate hardness expressed in degrees of German hardness.

To increase accuracy, a larger sample volume can be used. In this case, each drop represents half a unit of carbonate hardness.

Durability and Storage

The reagents are usable for 6 months after opening. They should be stored in a dark and cool place to ensure the reliability of the results.