7.8 is closer to neutral (7) than the 5 or 6 that you said your tank is at. There are also pH increasers sold at pet stores, and I've read that you can use sea shells as a more natural source. All the fish you've mentioned like the pH to be around 7 (all of them fit in the 6.5 to 7.5 range), at least according to my research on reputable sites.



I use the liquid additives because you don't have to worry about solids dissolving. Of course you should mix additives outside the tank. If it were me, I would add some of the pH increaser to about a gallon of water and add gradually. Maybe to do that every day until the pH is at correct level, and then just add that to the water for your water changes along with your other additives (I'm assuming you have city water and add a de-chlorinator to the water you use for your water changes - because that's what most people do, if that's not the case for you, for instance if you have well water, you may not need to add the de-chlorinator, then I would add some pH increaser to your water change water before you add it to your tank).



Stress from pH increases or decreases isn't really the number one fish killer. However, it does cause stress to the fish if it is drastic or outside their intended pH range. If the pH is too acidic, it can interrupt their osmoregulation, enzymes, and gas exchange.



I've attached a link for you on how others suggest you adjust the pH of your water.
Adjusting pH


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Phishie

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"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

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