{"product_id":"seachem-cichlid-lake-salt-500g","title":"Seachem Cichlid Lake Salt 500 g – African Rift Lake Mineral Supplement","description":"\u003cp\u003eSeachem Cichlid Lake Salt 500 g is a concentrated freshwater mineral supplement formulated to recreate the mineral-rich conditions associated with the African Rift Lakes. It provides calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and trace elements in lake-specific concentrations for Lake Tanganyika, Lake Malawi, and Lake Victoria cichlid aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike ordinary aquarium salt, Cichlid Lake Salt is not simply sodium chloride. It is a balanced mixture of mineral salts designed to increase general hardness and provide physiologically important ions used by African cichlids for normal osmoregulation and mineral balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCichlid Lake Salt affects mineral hardness, or GH, but does not significantly increase carbonate hardness, alkalinity, or pH. When pH and KH also need to be adjusted, Seachem recommends pairing it with Tanganyika Buffer or Malawi\/Victoria Buffer according to the fish species being maintained.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFormulated for African Rift Lake Cichlids:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides lake-specific dosing for Tanganyika, Malawi, and Victoria aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRaises General Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and other mineral salts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupports Osmoregulation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps create an appropriate mineral environment for hard-water African cichlids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMore Complete Than Basic Aquarium Salt:\u003c\/strong\u003e Contains several physiologically important minerals rather than relying only on sodium chloride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDoes Not Raise KH:\u003c\/strong\u003e Allows mineral hardness and carbonate hardness to be adjusted separately\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDoes Not Directly Buffer pH:\u003c\/strong\u003e May be paired with an appropriate Seachem cichlid buffer when pH adjustment is needed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRO\/DI Water Compatible:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ideal for controlled remineralization of purified source water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFreshwater Use:\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed specifically for African cichlid aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProduct Information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrand:\u003c\/strong\u003e Seachem\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProduct:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cichlid Lake Salt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 500 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEquivalent Weight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 1.1 lb\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e African Rift Lake mineral and GH supplement\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAquarium Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater African cichlid aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRaises:\u003c\/strong\u003e General hardness and dissolved mineral content\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDoes Not Directly Raise:\u003c\/strong\u003e KH, alkalinity, or pH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Use:\u003c\/strong\u003e New aquarium setup and replacement water during water changes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBest Used For\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLake Tanganyika cichlid aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLake Malawi cichlid aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLake Victoria cichlid aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrontosa aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTropheus aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMbuna aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeacock cichlid aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHaplochromine cichlid aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShell-dwelling cichlid systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemineralizing RO or DI water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorrecting confirmed low GH in African cichlid systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePreparing consistent replacement water for water changes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOfficial Dosing by Rift Lake\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll official doses are based on 10 US gallons of RO or DI water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLake Tanganyika:\u003c\/strong\u003e 11 g, approximately 1½ teaspoons, per 10 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLake Malawi:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5.5 g, approximately ¾ teaspoon, per 10 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLake Victoria:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3.6 g, approximately ½ teaspoon, per 10 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese doses are designed for purified water with little or no existing hardness. Tap water, mineral substrates, limestone, crushed coral, and other sources of calcium or magnesium may reduce the amount required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLake Tanganyika Dosage Guide\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 11 g per 10 gallons. This raises GH by approximately 8.8 dGH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 5.5 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e10 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 11 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e20 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 22 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 33 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 44 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e55 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 60.5 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e75 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 82.5 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e100 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 110 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e125 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 137.5 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e150 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 165 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLake Malawi Dosage Guide\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 5.5 g per 10 gallons. This raises GH by approximately 4.4 dGH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 2.75 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e10 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5.5 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e20 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 11 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 16.5 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 22 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e55 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 30.25 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e75 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 41.25 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e100 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 55 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e125 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 68.75 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e150 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 82.5 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLake Victoria Dosage Guide\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 3.6 g per 10 gallons. This raises GH by approximately 3 dGH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 1.8 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e10 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3.6 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e20 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7.2 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10.8 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14.4 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e55 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 19.8 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e75 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 27 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e100 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e125 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e150 Gallons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 54 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRecommended GH Ranges\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeachem recommends the following general-hardness ranges:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLake Tanganyika:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–5.5 meq\/L, approximately 8–14 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLake Malawi:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.5–3 meq\/L, approximately 4–8 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLake Victoria:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1–2 meq\/L, approximately 3–6 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese are general lake-specific guidelines. Individual species, captive-bred populations, and existing source-water chemistry should also be considered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow Much Water Does the 500 g Container Treat?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApproximate treatment capacity at the full official dose:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTanganyika Dose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 455 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMalawi Dose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 909 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVictoria Dose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 1,389 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eActual capacity may be greater when tap water already contains part of the required hardness and testing shows that a reduced dose is appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDirections for Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasure the volume of water being prepared.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest the source water’s existing GH.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalculate the required dose according to the lake and desired GH.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDissolve Cichlid Lake Salt thoroughly in freshwater before use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd the prepared mineral solution to the replacement water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCirculate and aerate the water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest GH, KH, pH, and temperature.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdjust gradually if additional mineral hardness is required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd the prepared replacement water slowly to the aquarium.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor an established aquarium, calculate the dose according to the amount of water being replaced—not the aquarium’s total volume—unless the entire system is being remineralized for the first time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUsing Cichlid Lake Salt with RO or DI Water\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRO and DI water contain very little calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, carbonate hardness, or alkalinity. This makes purified water useful for creating controlled aquarium chemistry, but the required minerals and buffering must be restored before the water is suitable for Rift Lake cichlids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA complete preparation routine may include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd Cichlid Lake Salt to establish GH and mineral content.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDissolve the product thoroughly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd the appropriate cichlid buffer to establish KH and pH.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCirculate and aerate the water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest GH, KH, pH, and temperature before use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not use untreated pure RO or DI water as the primary water source for African cichlids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUsing Cichlid Lake Salt with Tap Water\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCichlid Lake Salt may be used with tap water, but the starting GH must be tested first. Seachem’s full doses are based on purified water and may be excessive when added to naturally hard tap water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheyenne and other regional water sources may already contain significant calcium and magnesium. Customers should not assume that the full label dose is needed without testing their specific source water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen tap water already provides part of the desired GH, add only enough Cichlid Lake Salt to reach the intended range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Cichlid Lake Salt Raise GH?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Increasing general hardness is one of the product’s main functions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGH primarily reflects dissolved calcium and magnesium, although Cichlid Lake Salt also provides potassium, sodium, and trace elements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe approximate GH increases at the official doses are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTanganyika Dose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 8.8 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMalawi Dose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 4.4 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVictoria Dose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 3 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Cichlid Lake Salt Raise KH?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Seachem states that Cichlid Lake Salt affects hardness but not alkalinity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGH and KH measure different aspects of aquarium chemistry:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGH:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily measures calcium and magnesium hardness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKH:\u003c\/strong\u003e Measures carbonate and bicarbonate alkalinity that helps stabilize pH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse an appropriate cichlid buffer when carbonate hardness needs to be increased.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Cichlid Lake Salt Raise pH?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not formulated as a pH buffer and does not directly establish the high pH required by Rift Lake cichlids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdding dissolved minerals may slightly influence the overall chemistry or conductivity of very pure water, but reliable pH control requires sufficient carbonate alkalinity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse Tanganyika Buffer or Malawi\/Victoria Buffer when pH and KH adjustment is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCichlid Lake Salt with Tanganyika Buffer\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Lake Tanganyika aquariums:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCichlid Lake Salt:\u003c\/strong\u003e Establishes GH and supplies mineral salts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTanganyika Buffer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Raises KH and maintains approximately pH 9.0–9.4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeachem recommends adding Cichlid Lake Salt before Tanganyika Buffer when preparing new water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCichlid Lake Salt with Malawi\/Victoria Buffer\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Lake Malawi and Lake Victoria aquariums:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCichlid Lake Salt:\u003c\/strong\u003e Establishes lake-specific mineral hardness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMalawi\/Victoria Buffer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Raises KH and maintains approximately pH 7.8–8.4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd Cichlid Lake Salt first, dissolve it thoroughly, and then add the buffer according to test results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIngredients\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeachem lists the following ingredients:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMagnesium chloride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium chloride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePotassium sulfate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSodium chloride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluminum sulfate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIron sulfate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePotassium iodide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCichlid Lake Salt therefore contains sodium chloride, but it is not simply ordinary aquarium salt. Its formula provides a broader selection of major and trace minerals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGuaranteed Mineral Analysis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeachem provides the following guaranteed analysis per gram:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCalcium:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3.24% minimum, 3.50% maximum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMagnesium:\u003c\/strong\u003e 11.83% minimum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePotassium:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10.08% minimum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSodium:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3.53% minimum, 3.75% maximum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAluminum:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.90 mg minimum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIodine:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.02 mg minimum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIron:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.20 mg minimum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSelenium:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.00002 mg minimum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eZinc:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.007 mg minimum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCichlid Lake Salt vs. Aquarium Salt\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCichlid Lake Salt:\u003c\/strong\u003e A multi-mineral blend formulated to increase GH and replicate Rift Lake mineral concentrations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBasic Aquarium Salt:\u003c\/strong\u003e Usually primarily sodium chloride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrdinary aquarium salt does not provide the same calcium, magnesium, potassium, and trace-mineral balance as Cichlid Lake Salt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two products should not be treated as interchangeable or dosed using the same directions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCichlid Lake Salt vs. Cichlid Trace\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCichlid Lake Salt:\u003c\/strong\u003e Used during aquarium setup and water changes to establish major mineral concentrations and GH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCichlid Trace:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies smaller trace-element amounts between water changes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCichlid Trace does not replace the larger mineral contribution provided by Cichlid Lake Salt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShould It Be Added During Every Water Change?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse Cichlid Lake Salt when new replacement water requires additional mineral hardness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalculate the dose according to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe volume of replacement water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe source water’s existing GH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe lake-specific target range\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe amount of mineral hardness already present in the aquarium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not automatically add a full-tank dose during every partial water change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShould It Be Added for Evaporation Top-Off?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Minerals do not evaporate with aquarium water. When water evaporates, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and other dissolved substances remain behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReplacing evaporation with mineralized water can cause GH and total dissolved solids to rise gradually.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTop off ordinary evaporation with plain conditioned freshwater or appropriately prepared RO water. Add Cichlid Lake Salt only when actual water has been removed or testing confirms that GH needs correction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUse in Established Aquariums\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen correcting low mineral hardness in an occupied aquarium, make adjustments gradually. Sudden changes in GH and conductivity can create osmotic stress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhenever possible, prepare and test replacement water outside the aquarium. Small controlled changes are safer than adding a large amount of dry mineral salt directly to the tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not add undissolved powder directly onto fish, plants, substrate, or decorations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUse with Mineral Substrates and Rock\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrushed coral, aragonite, limestone, coral sand, and some decorative rocks may already add calcium, magnesium, KH, or alkalinity to aquarium water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese materials can increase the final hardness beyond what is expected from the product dose alone. Test source and aquarium water regularly when mineral-rich substrates or rock are present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs It Suitable for All African Cichlids?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCichlid Lake Salt is formulated for Rift Lake African cichlids, but the required concentration varies considerably by lake.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLake Tanganyika fish generally require a higher mineral concentration than Lake Malawi or Victoria fish. Always select the dose that matches the fish’s origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWest African river cichlids and soft-water species should not automatically receive Rift Lake mineral concentrations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs It Suitable for Community Aquariums?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt should be used only when the aquarium’s inhabitants require hard, mineral-rich water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is generally not appropriate for soft-water community species such as:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMany South American dwarf cichlids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWild-type tetras\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMany rasboras\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoft-water catfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlackwater fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed-species aquariums should be maintained at parameters that are appropriate for every inhabitant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs It Suitable for Planted Aquariums?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCichlid Lake Salt may be used in aquariums containing plants that tolerate hard, alkaline conditions, but it is not a planted-aquarium fertilizer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany common aquarium plants can adapt to moderate hardness, while some soft-water plants may perform poorly at the higher mineral concentrations associated with Rift Lake systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant compatibility depends on species, GH, KH, pH, substrate, lighting, and overall aquarium conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes It Improve Fish Color or Breeding?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProviding appropriate mineral conditions can support normal health, osmoregulation, and reproductive function, but the product should not be marketed as guaranteeing brighter coloration or breeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor and breeding behavior also depend on:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGenetics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecies and maturity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSocial structure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTank size and territory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemperature\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStress and aggression\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTesting Recommendations\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse a reliable freshwater GH test kit before and after dosing. Also test KH and pH because Cichlid Lake Salt does not control those parameters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor greater consistency, aquarists may also monitor conductivity or total dissolved solids. A standard saltwater hydrometer is generally not sensitive enough to measure the relatively low mineral concentrations used in freshwater cichlid aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDosing Tips\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest source-water GH before adding the product\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse lake-specific dosing rather than one universal dose\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBase water-change dosing on the amount of replacement water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDissolve the mineral salt in freshwater before use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd Cichlid Lake Salt before cichlid buffer products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdjust GH gradually in occupied aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not add it automatically to evaporation top-off water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a digital gram scale for accurate measurement\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep a written water-preparation recipe\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest GH, KH, and pH separately\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStorage Instructions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the container tightly closed and store it in a cool, dry location. Protect the powder from humidity and prevent wet measuring tools from entering the container.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse a clean, dry spoon or digital scale. Keep aquarium products away from children, pets, food, and household cooking utensils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImportant Aquarium Care Note\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCichlid Lake Salt raises mineral hardness but does not remove chlorine, chloramine, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, or dissolved waste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt does not cycle an aquarium, replace water changes, or provide carbonate buffering. A complete African cichlid setup may require:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA suitable water conditioner\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCichlid Lake Salt for GH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn appropriate cichlid buffer for KH and pH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEstablished biological filtration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRegular water testing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecies-appropriate diet and aquarium space\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRapid changes in GH, KH, pH, or conductivity can stress fish. Prepare replacement water consistently and make corrections gradually.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is Seachem Cichlid Lake Salt used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt increases GH and supplies calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and trace minerals for African Rift Lake cichlid aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it the same as ordinary aquarium salt?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo. Ordinary aquarium salt is primarily sodium chloride. Cichlid Lake Salt is a multi-mineral blend formulated for Rift Lake water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes Cichlid Lake Salt contain sodium chloride?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. Sodium chloride is one ingredient, but the product also contains substantial magnesium, calcium, potassium, and trace-mineral compounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs sodium chloride the only ingredient?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo. The formula includes magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium sulfate, sodium chloride, and several trace-mineral salts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it raise GH?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. It is specifically designed to increase general hardness and mineral content.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it raise KH?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo. Use Tanganyika Buffer or Malawi\/Victoria Buffer when KH and alkalinity need to be raised.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it raise pH?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is not a pH buffer and does not directly establish the desired Rift Lake pH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much should I use for Lake Tanganyika?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUse 11 g, approximately 1½ teaspoons, per 10 gallons of RO or DI water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much should I use for Lake Malawi?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUse 5.5 g, approximately ¾ teaspoon, per 10 gallons of RO or DI water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much should I use for Lake Victoria?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUse 3.6 g, approximately ½ teaspoon, per 10 gallons of RO or DI water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre those doses appropriate for tap water?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey are based on RO or DI water. Test tap-water GH and reduce the dose when minerals are already present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the 500 g container treat?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eApproximately 455 gallons at the Tanganyika dose, 909 gallons at the Malawi dose, or 1,389 gallons at the Victoria dose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShould it be dissolved before use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. Dissolve it in freshwater before adding it to the aquarium or replacement-water container.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShould it be added during water changes?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAdd it to replacement water when testing shows that additional GH is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShould it be added when replacing evaporated water?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo. Minerals remain behind during evaporation, so automatic mineral dosing during top-off can cause GH to accumulate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan it be used with Tanganyika Buffer?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. Add Cichlid Lake Salt first to establish GH, then use Tanganyika Buffer to adjust KH and pH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan it be used with Malawi\/Victoria Buffer?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. The salt establishes mineral hardness, while the buffer adjusts carbonate hardness and pH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it suitable for community fish?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOnly when every species in the aquarium requires hard, mineral-rich water. It is not appropriate for most soft-water community species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it safe for plants?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt may be used with plants that tolerate hard alkaline water, but some soft-water plants may not thrive under Rift Lake conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan Cichlid Lake Salt be overdosed?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. Excessive dosing may raise GH and conductivity beyond the appropriate range. Test before and after use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it replace aquarium water changes?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo. It adjusts mineral content but does not remove waste or accumulated contaminants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAvailable at Tropical Treasures Wyo\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeachem Cichlid Lake Salt 500 g supplies calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and trace minerals for establishing lake-specific GH in Tanganyika, Malawi, and Victoria cichlid aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop Cichlid Lake Salt, Tanganyika Buffer, Malawi\/Victoria Buffer, Cichlid Trace, African cichlid foods, GH and KH test kits, and Rift Lake aquarium supplies.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Treasures Wyo LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53095446773973,"sku":null,"price":13.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0670\/4545\/8133\/files\/SC02770-2T.png?v=1785001740","url":"https:\/\/tropicaltreasureswyo.com\/products\/seachem-cichlid-lake-salt-500g","provider":"Tropical Treasures Wyo LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}