Saltwater Master Liquid Test Kit: high range pH (7.4 to 8.8), ammonia (NH3/NH4+), nitrite (NO2-), nitrate (NO3-). Fast, easy and accurate. The Saltwater Master liquid test kit provides information on how to perform each test, how often to perform the tests, what the test results mean, and how to correct any unsafe water conditions that may be detected. This Kit contains:Instructional Booklet CompleteWater Resistant Test Solution Bottles for 4 saltwater testsFour glass test tubes with snap-tight caps in holders.Why test pH? pH is the measure of acidity of water. A pH reading of 7.0 is neutral. A pH higher than 7.0 is alkaline and a pH lower than 7.0 is acidic. Certain freshwater fish thrive at a pH above 7.0. Livebearers, goldfish and African cichlids prefer a pH of 7.5. Marine fish and invertebrates require a pH between 8.2 to 8.4. Maintaining the aquarium at the proper pH ensures optimal water quality. Testing Tips: This kit measures pH from 7.4 to 8.8 in either fresh or saltwater aquariums. Artificial salt water should have a pH of 8.2. If not, adjustment with Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Proper pH 8.2 is recommended. pH adjustment may be required in newly made salt water. Why test for Ammonia? Tropical fish continually release ammonia (NH3), directly into the aquarium through their gills, urine and solid waste. Uneaten food and other decaying organic matter also add ammonia to the water. A natural mechanism exists that controls ammonia in the aquarium - the biological filter. It is made up of nitrifying bacteria, which live in the gravel bed. However, as with any natural process, imbalances can occur. Testing for the presence of toxic ammonia is essential, so that once detected, steps can be taken to remove it. Otherwise, ammonia in the aquarium will damage gill membranes, and prevent fish from carrying normal respiration. High levels of ammonia quickly lead to fish death. Even trace amounts stress fish, suppressing their immune system and thereby increasing the like