Tanganyika Buffer 250g

Tanganyika Buffer is a blend of carbonate salts designed to enhance the natural environment of cichlids by increasing hardness, buffer capacity, and pH. It is formulated to maintain a pH of 9.0-9.4. For optimum replication of the Tanganyikan environment, use with Cichlid Lake Salt and Cichlid Trace.

DIRECTIONS: Use 5 g (1 level teaspoon) for each 40-80 L (10 to 20 gallons) of water each day until desired pH is attained and maintained. Thereafter, use as required to maintain pH, usually no more than once every two to three weeks.

HINTS: It is best to dissolve the buffer in freshwater before use. Use when setting up an aquarium or making water changes (preferably after the addition of Seachem’s Cichlid Lake Salt) and between water changes as needed to maintain pH. Seachem’s Tanganyika Buffer is formulated to maintain a pH between 9.0 and 9.4, depending on the amount used. For lower pH, use Malawi/Victoria Buffer (pH 7.8-8.4), either alone or in combination with Tanganyika Buffer.

FAQ from Seachem

Q: I have a Malawi 135 gallon tank that is filled with 7.2 pH tap. I purchased some Tanganyika Buffer, and added 1/2 cup to the tank. When I checked the pH, it was 9.0. I am concerned about this type of sudden pH change. Is it normal? Is is harmful? How should I add the solution? I usually do 50% water changes weekly. How would you recommend adding Seachem Cichlid Salt and/or Tanganyika Buffer to my tank safely?

A: Ideally, the pH of the environment should be adjusted accordingly before introducing your first fish. If this is not possible, then I recommend to add the product slowly until the desired pH is reached if there is fish already in the aquarium. I recommend to use Malawi/Victoria Buffer instead of Tanganyika Buffer as they are a different blend of salts. The ingredients in Malawi/Victoria Buffer will result in a pH between 7.8 – 8.4. The ingredients in Tanganyika Buffer will result in a pH between 9.0- 9.4. Once the pH is adjusted to the desired range and you perform regular maintenance/partial water exchanges, you should exchange some of your existing 9.0 pH water for freshly mixed 9.0 water. If you do not have the ability to pre-mix water with Tanganyika Buffer or Malawi/Victoria Buffer and Cichlid Lake Salt before performing partial water exchanges, then I recommend to do smaller increment partial water exchanges and mix the buffer and salt directly in the aquarium as you do not have any other options. Be aware that Malawi cichlids prefer a pH in the range of 7.8 – 8.4.