Fundamentals for Checking Water Quality | Terrarium Builds and Live Food

Equipment needed

TDS Meter:
pH Meter, Test Kit or Test Strips
Digital Thermometer:

Ideal Ranges

For Aquariums:

TDS:

Freshwater: 150-300 ppm

Brackish water: 1000-5000 ppm

Saltwater: 35000 ppm (35 ppt or 3.5% salinity)

Freshwater: 6.5-7.5 (can vary depending on species)

Brackish water: 7.5-8.5

Saltwater: 8.0-8.4

Temperature:

Tropical freshwater: 75-80°F (24-27°C)

Marine: 75-82°F (24-28°C)

Coldwater species: 60-75°F (15-24°C)

For Terrariums:

TDS: Generally, a TDS level of 200-500 ppm is acceptable for most plants and animals. Higher levels can indicate excessive salts or contaminants.
pH: A pH range of 6.5-7.5 is suitable for most terrarium environments, supporting plant health and preventing stress in animals.
Temperature: Maintain the water temperature close to the ambient temperature of the terrarium, typically around 70-85°F (21-29°C) depending on the species housed.

To ensure the water source in your terrarium or aquarium is suitable for its inhabitants, you need to regularly check its Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH value, and temperature. Here are detailed steps for checking these parameters:

Checking Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

Using a TDS Meter:

Purchase a TDS Meter: These devices are readily available online and in pet, aquarium, or garden supply stores.
Calibrate the Meter: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to calibrate the TDS meter if needed.
Collect a Water Sample: Use a clean container to take a water sample from your terrarium or aquarium.
Insert the Meter: Turn on the TDS meter and place the probes into the water sample, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Read the Measurement: Wait for the reading to stabilize and note the TDS value, which is usually given in parts per million (ppm).

Checking pH Value

Using a pH Meter:

Purchase a pH Meter: Available at aquarium stores, garden centers, or online.
Calibrate the pH Meter: If using a digital meter, calibrate it according to the instructions with pH buffer solutions.
Collect a Water Sample: Use a clean container to collect a water sample from your terrarium or aquarium.
Insert the pH Meter Probe: Turn on the meter and place the probe into the water sample, making sure it is fully submerged.
Read the Measurement: Allow the reading to stabilize, then record the pH value.

Using pH Test Strips:

Purchase pH Test Strips: Available at pet stores, garden centres, or online.
Collect a Water Sample: Use a clean container to take a sample of the water.
Dip the Test Strip: Place a test strip into the water sample, ensuring it is fully immersed.
Compare Colours: After the strip changes colour, compare it to the provided colour chart to determine the pH value.

Checking Temperature

Using a Digital Thermometer:

Purchase a Digital Thermometer: Ensure it is suitable for aquatic environments.
Insert the Thermometer Probe: Place the probe into the water, making sure it is fully submerged.
Read the Measurement: Wait for the reading to stabilize and record the temperature.

Best Practices for Accurate Measurements

Regular Calibration: Regularly calibrate your TDS and pH meters according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure accurate readings.
Clean Probes: Rinse the probes with distilled water before and after each use to avoid contamination.
Consistent Sampling: Always take water samples from the same location and depth to ensure consistency.
Monitor Regularly: Regular monitoring helps to detect any changes in water quality early, allowing for timely corrective actions.