my japanese 3-colored swords

[dc38]

what PH is suitable for swords? I had PH-8 before but my japanese 3-colored sword died. Would lowering the PH help? One of my friend suggested me to add salt, he said salt is good for swords, is this true?
I still have 10 japanses 3-colored sword babies and I don't want them die (they are quite precious and hard to find).
The water quality is excellent (with canister filter), PH is now 8. Should I lower the PH or add salt?
Please help.

 

[Annastasia]

pH 8 should be okay, but you might want to try lowering it.

As for salt...yes, Swords do like salt. It isn't absolutely necessary for them though. Being able to add salt depends on what other fish you have in there. What are their tankmates?

 

[dc38]

I don't have any other type of fish in that tank, only these spotted swords. I added some salt (one table spoon) in the water yesterday and they seem fine.
As for PH, I still hesitate to lower it. I have another tank for cichlids and I add Peat granulate in the water and the water became yellowish in colour. Is there any other safe method to lower PH without soiling the water??

 

[Annastasia]

There are some chemicals you can use...but I'd just keep it at p.H. 8.

Adding salt should be fine. Just follow the instructions on the package.

 

[Tokis-Phoenix]

I would avoid altering the ph, your swords will be fine with the ph they've got; adding ph boosters usually only cause more complications/problems than what they solve, one of the main problems being every time you do a water change you disrupt the levels in the water causing much stress for your fish etc.