JBL ProAquaTest GH – General Hardness (Calcium & Magnesium) Test
Measure your aquarium’s general hardness (GH) quickly and accurately with the JBL ProAquaTest GH. This titration test determines dissolved calcium and magnesium salts in degrees dGH, helping you set the right conditions for fish, plants, and invertebrates in both freshwater and marine (make-up water) contexts.
Why measure GH?
- Livestock health: Many species require specific mineral levels to thrive.
- Plant growth: Adequate Ca/Mg supports robust, balanced plant development.
- Breeding & behaviour: Correct hardness aids osmoregulation and species-specific behaviour.
Key features
- Simple titration method: Count drops to a clear colour change for an instant dGH reading.
- Accurate & repeatable: Reliable results when technique and volume are consistent.
- Fast: Complete the test in minutes.
- Ideal for freshwater: Also useful for checking remineralised RO water.
What’s included
- GH reagent (titrant)
- Test vial / cuvette with cap
- Instruction leaflet
How to use (quick guide)
- Rinse the vial with sample water and fill to the marked line.
- Add one drop at a time of GH reagent, swirling gently after each drop.
- Stop at the distinct colour change.
- Reading: Number of drops added = GH in dGH (e.g., 6 drops = 6 dGH).
- Record your result for future comparison.
Typical target ranges (guidance)
- Soft-water species (e.g., tetras, discus): ~3–6 dGH
- Community tanks: ~6–12 dGH
- Hard-water species (e.g., livebearers, rift lake cichlids): ~10–18 dGH (species dependent)
Pro tips
- Test GH weekly and after large water changes.
- To raise GH, use suitable remineralising salts or blend RO with harder tap water.
- Pair GH with KH and pH checks to maintain stable, species-appropriate conditions.
FAQs
What is the difference between GH and KH?
GH measures total calcium and magnesium (overall hardness), while KH measures buffering capacity (alkalinity) that stabilises pH.
Can I use this in marine setups?
Marine tanks are typically assessed with alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium tests; GH is most relevant to freshwater and RO remineralisation checks.
With JBL ProAquaTest GH, you can fine-tune mineral content for healthier fish and plants.
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