aquavitro shrimp pHa is one part of a two-part system which aids in replicating the water chemistry found in the native habitats of freshwater shrimp by buffering water to the natural pH for each specific type of shrimp. Used according to directions, shrimp pHa maintains the proper pH parameters of freshwater shrimp while also softening water and supporting growth of plants in shrimp aquaria. shrimp pHa is made from a unique buffer system that is extremely stable and does not add sodium, which can damage plants in the aquarium.