Concerns Over Tap Water Quality for Fish Owners in Westbrook
In Westbrook, Maine, complaints have emerged from a local pet store about the usability of tap water for fish tanks. Easy Aquariums’ manager, Larisa Larrabee, reports a surge of calls from residents in Westbrook, Portland, Gray, Gorham, and Cape Elizabeth regarding issues after tank maintenance. Customers have noted rising ammonia levels and declining pH, resulting in distressed fish.
Larrabee describes the detrimental effects, saying fish often turn pale, exhibit stress, and may develop serious health issues like fungal infections. She emphasizes that the typical water conditioner used for dechlorination is failing due to increased chlorine levels in the tap water, leading to “full tank crashes.”
Larrabee is urging fish owners to consider using bottled water for tank changes during this troubling period and advises caution when consuming tap water. She also recommends regular testing, revealing alarming pH levels around 4.5 and ammonia levels between 2 to 3 ppm.
