First of all... Some may remember me, I am fairly new here. Just got my betta last weekend (11th). I have done two water changes, per recommendation. A few tests. And the levels all seem fine, hoping I'm reading them correctly. I have the API test, and test strips. And actually the two tests appear to match. No ammonia, nitrites or nitrates.. However the pH is about 7.4. Also on the test strip it tests for hardness, and it comes back "Hard." I hear hardness won't harm a fish.. But pH? I was told not to use any chemicals in the water besides conditioner. I am doing the recommended tests and water changes (50% twice weekly while cycling).. which is another question - when do I know the tank is cycled? Anyhow, back to the original question... pH.. should I worry, should I do anything about this? He is very active, healthy appetite (I normally feed about 6-7 pellets a day?). Steady 79 degree temp. The only thing I am not sure about is his fins don't seem completely "open?" The top one is curled a bit, and the back one a tiny on the top part. I read somewhere this could be due to hard water. But how do I change that, is it worth it to change? Is it harming him? Sorry for all the questions.. I am going to post some pics so you can see him, and the fins for yourself. Also a link to a YouTube video I uploaded from my phone. Am also still trying to think of a name, suggestions welcome!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIQ2JuqxRqE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIQ2JuqxRqE