No, fish generally should not be kept in mineral water.
Mineral water, especially carbonated mineral water, is unsuitable for most fish due to the following reasons:
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Mineral Content: The high mineral content, while beneficial for humans, can disrupt the delicate osmotic balance in fish, potentially leading to stress or even death. Fish have evolved to thrive in specific water conditions, and drastic changes in mineral concentration can be harmful.
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Carbonation: Carbonated water contains dissolved carbon dioxide. This can lower the pH of the water, making it more acidic. This acidic environment can stress fish and impair their ability to breathe properly. Furthermore, the dissolved carbon dioxide can displace oxygen, leading to oxygen deprivation.
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Additives: Some mineral waters may contain additives or flavorings that are toxic to fish.
Instead of mineral water, use dechlorinated tap water or reverse osmosis (RO) water that has been appropriately treated and conditioned for the specific type of fish you are keeping. For saltwater or reef tanks, only bottled water that has undergone reverse osmosis is suitable after proper treatment. Never use carbonated, flavored, or vitamin-enhanced water.
