What does pH measure?

pH is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. It indicates how acidic or basic a solution is, which is critical for aquatic environments as it can affect the health of aquatic plants and animals. A lower pH value means a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, making the solution more acidic, whereas a higher pH indicates a lower concentration of hydrogen ions, resulting in a more basic solution.

Understanding pH is essential for managing water quality, particularly in aquaculture and in the maintenance of natural water bodies. Maintaining an appropriate pH level is vital for the survival of fish and other aquatic organisms, as most species have specific pH ranges within which they thrive.