2. Water pH
pH – Power of Hydrogen
Fish: 6.5 to 8.0
Plants: 5.0 to 7.0
Bacteria: 6.5 to 8.0
To Increase pH (<6.6)
Calcium Hydroxide (Hydrated Lime) Adds Calcium
K or Ca, Hydroxide or Carbonate
Nitrification over time releases more radical H ions
To Decrease pH (>7.4 )
Add Nitric or Phosphoric Acid (0.5 cap per 1000 L)
Anaerobic Pockets causing De-nitrifying bacteria to flourish
3. Temperature
Fish Feeding and Temperature
Species Dependant
High temperature = More Fish Food = Nutrients
Too Low = Fish stop eating + Bacteria stop reproducing
Root zone temperature = 22 °C
Bacteria and Nitrification = 25 to 30 °C
4. Dissolved Oxygen
Critical for Fish and Nitrifying Bacterial Activity
Supports healthy root development in DWC
Minimum for fish = 4 mg/L
Minimum for plant roots = 2.5 mg/L
Minimum for bacteria = 2 mg/L
Ideal DO = 5 mg/L to 10 mg/L
5. System Cycling
Process of establishing the beneficial bacteria and
stabilizing the water quality in a new system
Fishless cycle
2 weeks – warm climate
4-6 weeks – cold climate
Water Quality
Stabilize pH
Treat for Cholramine
Sea Weed Extract – Ammonia Source
Nitrifying Bacteria Pond Culture
