Why Do My Fish Keep Coming To The Surface To Breathe?
Lack of oxygen in the water will cause your fish to swim to the surface to breathe; the concentration of dissolved oxygen is highest here. As soon as you notice that most of the fish are gasping for air near the surface, act immediately because this is a clear sign of distress. Ask yourself the following questions:
Is the water polluted (or cloudy due to overfeeding)? If so, replace up to one-third of the polluted water with clean water. Remember to use the correct composition/ treatment and temperature.
Are there dead fish in the tank? If so, remove them immediately, and replace up to one-third of the water if decay has already polluted it.
Are your aerators (airstones, bubblewands, etc.) working properly? Did your airpump malfunction? Check your equipment and tubing, and adjust, repair, or replace accordingly. Remember that airstones and bubblewands have relatively short lifespans and can easily get clogged with slime and algae. always buy these products in twos or threes so that you will have enough on hand when they cease to function.
Are the tank’s oxygen levels, temperature, and ammonia and nitrate levels in an acceptable range? Any discrepancy can upset the balance of your tank.
Has the tank been contaminated by toxic material like metal or biodegradable (water-soluble) items that may have been inadvertently introduced into the tank? If so, remove them immediately and replace up to one-third or one-half of the water as necessary.
With this season’s high heat, water changes may also be necessary to replenish oxygen levels, and also temporarily cool the water temperature to give the fish a rest time.
Is the water polluted (or cloudy due to overfeeding)? If so, replace up to one-third of the polluted water with clean water. Remember to use the correct composition/ treatment and temperature.
Are there dead fish in the tank? If so, remove them immediately, and replace up to one-third of the water if decay has already polluted it.
Are your aerators (airstones, bubblewands, etc.) working properly? Did your airpump malfunction? Check your equipment and tubing, and adjust, repair, or replace accordingly. Remember that airstones and bubblewands have relatively short lifespans and can easily get clogged with slime and algae. always buy these products in twos or threes so that you will have enough on hand when they cease to function.
Are the tank’s oxygen levels, temperature, and ammonia and nitrate levels in an acceptable range? Any discrepancy can upset the balance of your tank.
Has the tank been contaminated by toxic material like metal or biodegradable (water-soluble) items that may have been inadvertently introduced into the tank? If so, remove them immediately and replace up to one-third or one-half of the water as necessary.
With this season’s high heat, water changes may also be necessary to replenish oxygen levels, and also temporarily cool the water temperature to give the fish a rest time.
