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Acid Regulator™ adjusts pH to the acidic range of 4.5 to 5.5 and softens water by precipitating calcium and magnesium, creating the optimal environment for acid-acclimated species such as neon tetras, other tetras, and soft water community fish. For a complete freshwater setup, pair Acid Regulator™ with Fresh Trace™ to restore essential trace elements.

Key Features & Benefits

  • Adjusts and maintains pH in the acidic range of 4.5 to 5.5
  • Softens water by precipitating calcium and magnesium
  • Creates optimal conditions for tetras, discus, and other acid-acclimated species
  • Works in combination with Neutral Regulator® for precise pH targeting between 5.8 and 6.8
  • Contains phosphate buffers and conditioning agents
  • Safe for all freshwater fish acclimated to acidic pH

Specifications

Specification Details
Dosage 1 level tsp (5 g) per 40 L daily until target pH is reached, then once a month or with water changes
Target pH Range 4.5 to 5.5
Sizes Available 50 g, 250 g, 500 g, 1 kg, 4 kg
Active Ingredients Phosphate buffers and conditioning agents
Suitable For Freshwater aquariums with fish acclimated to acidic pH
Best Used With Neutral Regulator®, Prime®, Fresh Trace™

The Science

Many popular freshwater species — including neon tetras, cardinal tetras, discus, and other soft water fish — originate from naturally acidic rivers and streams where pH sits well below neutral. Keeping these fish in alkaline or even neutral water can cause chronic stress and suppress their immune response over time, even when all other parameters appear healthy. Acid Regulator™ uses a phosphate-based buffering system to bring pH down into the acidic range and hold it there, resisting the natural tendency of aquarium water to drift back toward alkalinity.

In addition to pH adjustment, Acid Regulator™ softens water by precipitating excess calcium and magnesium out of solution. For aquariums where a specific pH between 5.8 and 6.8 is required, Acid Regulator™ can be used in combination with Neutral Regulator® and the ratio chart below to dial in a precise target. Always dechlorinate tap water with Prime® before water changes to ensure the buffering system works without interference.

pH Targeting Ratio Chart

When using Acid Regulator™ and Neutral Regulator® together to reach a specific pH, refer to the chart below. This chart assumes the use of unbuffered water such as RO or DI water. If using tap water, treat it as a starting guide and adjust from there.

Neutral Regulator® Acid Regulator™ Target pH
1 1 6.8
1 2 6.4
1 3 6.2
1 4 6.1
1 6 6.0
1 9 5.8

Advice

Use 1 level teaspoon (5 g) per 40 L daily until your target pH is reached. Once the desired pH is established, maintenance dosing of once a month or with each water change is sufficient. Always dechlorinate tap water with Prime® before water changes. To target a pH between 5.8 and 6.8, combine Acid Regulator™ with Neutral Regulator® using the ratio chart above as a guide. To raise pH above 7.0, use Neutral Regulator® alone.

Heads-up

Acid Regulator™ contains phosphate buffers, which may contribute to algae growth in aquariums with elevated nutrient levels. Monitor phosphate levels if algae becomes a concern and consider increasing water changes or plant density to manage excess nutrients. This product is formulated for freshwater use only and is not suitable for marine or reef aquariums. Always adjust pH gradually to avoid stressing fish.

Contact Us

Have questions about lowering pH or creating the ideal environment for your soft water fish? Contact our team for personalised advice tailored to your aquarium.

Size

1kg, 250g, 500g