No, fish cannot typically survive in pure or ultrapure water, though they can live in purified water that has been appropriately treated and supplemented. Here's a breakdown of why:
The Problems with Pure Water (H2O)
Pure water, devoid of minerals and electrolytes, is detrimental to fish for several reasons:
- Osmotic Imbalance: Fish regulate the salt and mineral balance in their bodies through osmosis. In pure water, their bodies would absorb water excessively, causing cells to swell and potentially rupture. Simultaneously, essential salts would leak out.
- Lack of Essential Minerals: Fish require certain minerals (like calcium, magnesium, and potassium) for various physiological functions. Pure water provides none of these.
- pH Instability: Pure water lacks buffering capacity, making it susceptible to rapid pH changes that can be harmful to fish.
Purified Water That Is Suitable
The reference refers to filtered water, which is a form of purified water. This type of purified water can be suitable, but only after specific treatment:
- Dechlorination: Chlorine and chloramine, often added to tap water, are toxic to fish and must be removed through filtration or chemical additives.
- Re-mineralization: Adding back essential minerals and electrolytes is crucial for fish health and osmotic balance. Products are available to achieve this.
- pH Buffering: Establishing a stable and appropriate pH for the specific fish species is essential.
In essence, purified water, once properly treated to remove harmful substances and replenish essential minerals, can be a suitable base for creating a healthy aquarium environment. However, simply placing fish in distilled or deionized water is a death sentence.
