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Determining CO2 level using pH & KH test results

from Owen James, AquaDaily

Another way to use the results obtained from testing the pH and KH of aquarium water is to use this table to determine the level of carbon dioxide present.

Note:

  • The optimal safe level of CO2 for growing plants is 15-35 mg/l.
  • CO2 levels above 35 mg/l can endanger your fish.
  • This method is unreliable in tanks using peat or mature aquariums with lots of organic matter and debris.
  • The accuracy of the test is dependant on accurate KH and pH readings

Using this method my readings of Ph=7.2 and KH=6 gives a Co2 reading of 11mg/l. This is 4mg/l lower that the previous calculation, as to which one is the most accurate, I really do not know so I decided to take the mg/l reading for my aquarium as the mid point between the two, i.e 12.5 mg/l.


Updated: 19/01/2012