Cycling new micro-system and pH

[Apollo]

Any rock, stone, cinder block that will bubble when put in vinegar will cause an AP system to have High pH levels. Why can't they also be used the same way egg shells are used? I would place a cinder block in my system before using a pH upper product made for aquariums. Most of those product states on the label not to use with edible fish.

[Aloha Don]

update please...and pictures of your system

[GK Daddio]

Any rock, stone, cinder block that will bubble when put in vinegar will cause an AP system to have High pH levels. Why can't they also be used the same way egg shells are used? I would place a cinder block in my system before using a pH upper product made for aquariums. Most of those product states on the label not to use with edible fish.

Good advise Apollo. I am just starting up my system and will be cycling with fish as well which I should be receiving this coming Tuesday. I am so used to working with ponds and "pet fish" that I need to remember to look at those little details like you mentioned with the pH adjusters.

[mbmixon]

The system is running better than it was at the last posting. One major issue was pH. The color metric pH with the API test kit led me to believe that my pH was between 6.0 and 6.2. Upon testing with calibrated meters, we found that the pH was actually 4.7! The pH is now being maintained around 6.6 to 6.8.
Not sure how to attach the picture to this post.....

[mbmixon]

Ah....had to open full editor to add file.

[GK Daddio]

Wow, now thats low . What all managed to survive those harsh conditions? My fish get introduced to my new system on Tuesday and I am awaiting the roller coaster ride to stabilization but hopefully it will only be a kids roller coaster effect.

[JCO]

Looking pretty good there. Don't forget to keep us posted as to your progress, changes and results.

[Aloha Don]

nice looking system
thanks for the pics
What are you using to maintain your current PH reading...still using egg shells ?