Background Information
Carbon dioxide in the water is in the form of a dissolved gas.  Aquatic plant life depend on carbon dioxide in the water in order to survive.  However, higher levels of carbon dioxide in the water make it difficult for fish to use the limited amount of oxygen in the water.  Usually as the dissolved oxygen levels decrease, the carbon dioxide levels increase. 


Test Procedure
To perform the carbon dioxide test, use a carbon dioxide test kit.  Follow the instructions provided with the kit.  Record results in parts per million (ppm). 


What to Expect
Surface waters should have a carbon dioxide level less than 10 ppm.