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ph of remineralized ro water is a popular base for aquarium setups because it gives the aquarist complete control over water chemistry. Remineralizing RO water for aquariums is not optional the way it is for drinking water. The Problem with Using Straight RO Water in a Fish Tank Pure RO water with no dissolved minerals is not a suitable environment for most fish. Hard water species like African cichlids require significantly higher calcium and magnesium levels. Remineralizing ro water for aquarium use means building a mineral profile matched to the species you are keeping, rather than applying a general drinking water target. Hardness Parameters for Aquarium Water GH, or general hardness, measures calcium and magnesium concentration. For African cichlids, GH targets of 10 to 20 dGH are typical. A KH of at least 2 to 3 dGH provides enough buffering to prevent pH crashes, which are more dangerous to fish than low mineral content. How to Remineralize RO Water for Aquarium Use These products are formulated to add calcium, magnesium, and in some cases trace elements in ratios appropriate for aquarium use. For cichlid tanks, products that add both hardness and carbonate hardness are more appropriate. Adding minerals to ro water for aquarium use requires testing after dosing, not before. Remineralizing for Plants Specifically Deficiencies show up as yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and in severe cases, tissue death at the growing tips. General aquarium buffers that focus only on carbonate hardness may not deliver enough calcium and magnesium for a heavily planted setup.