high-ph-alka

Question
Hi i would like to know how to get my ph down and alka .
the ph is at 7.8  and alka is at 300 .  Iam concern about
these levels , my tank is a 55 gal with plastic plants . also
i have 5 fish that are Cichlids ,and the tank was started at
sep 22, 2011. the fish length is 3-4 inchs long so i your avice on this         
         thanks
         Earl

Answer
Hi Earl,
This may be a surprise but its actually not necessary for you to lower your pH. Most cichlids are absolutely fine within the range your water is in. And trying to lower your pH can do much more harm than good. It is also very difficult to keep the levels lowered consistently and avoid pH rollercoaster rides which stress fish immensely.

Cichlids and most fish are very adaptable actually. So the best thing to do would be to just leave your water as is. As long as your fish are thriving. Its actually more important to the fishes health to keep the water clean with frequent partial water changes than to try to maintain a specific pH and alkalinity level.

I hope this helps and best of luck!
Susan~