Petfish.net Message Board Archive No. 10

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From: Kim 1/09/00
Subject: Zebra Danio - deformed spine Posted by Kim on January 09, 100 at 13:23:58:
I bought a zebra danio several months ago. A few weeks ago, its spine began curving so that now the back third of the fish points up at a 45 degree angle. He is still eating, but hides when there is much activity going on around the tank. Is this likely just a deformation problem, or should I be worried about the other fish in the tank?

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From: Ed 1/08/00
Subject: What's killing my gourami? Posted by Ed on January 08, 100 at 18:52:37:
I can't for the life of me identify or cure this condition. I believe it begins as white lumps that seem to protrude between scales in random places on the body (near the edges). Those protrusions expand into large ulcers. These ulcers can be anywhere on the edge of the body, from the gills to the tail. The fish lives for up to a month or even more then quickly declines and dies. This only seems to effect gourami. While gourami have been dying from this, I have (over time) had healthy black mollies, cardinal tetras, platties, bumblebee gobies, "blueberry" tetras, corys, a clown loach, a weather loach, a pleco, and chinese algae eaters. I also have had male and female betas (also labyrinth fish) that seem to be unaffected. Gourami are my favorite fish, so I'd really like to figure this out. Ones that have been affected are dwarf, gold, pearl, opal, giant, and ones that the pet store called "cinnamon" (they are bright red with a white tail, and are about dwarf sized). Dwarfs seem the most susceptible and usually die within a month of being added to the tank. Remedies I've tried (and I followed the directions well): Copper Safe - maintained directed levels for 4 months. Mar Oxy - three full treatments in 9 months.
Maracide - two full treatments in 9 months
Tetracycline - one full treatment
Maracyn - one full treatment
Maracyn 2 - one full treatment
Kanamycin - one full treatment
Each time I've treated the whole tank (yes, this has cumulatively cost a lot) because even if I go for two months without any gourami, once I put more in, they get this disease or condition or whatever. I've been fighting this for over a year. I have an excellent filtration system, I clean the tank fairly often, I don't over-feed, temperature is always around 80 F, pH is always around 7.0, and I feed them a highly varied diet including black worms. And again... it only kills gourami. Please help! My poor fishies keep dying and I have absolutely no idea even what it is that's killing them. Anyone have any ideas? Many thanks.

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From: amber 1/08/00
Subject: Re: What's killing my gourami? Posted by amber on January 08, 100 at 20:45:06: Re: (110.
) What's killing my gourami? posted by Ed on January 08, 100 at 18:52:37:
Do you buy your fish that keep getting sick from the same store?

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From: amber 1/08/00
Subject: Re: What's killing my gourami? Posted by amber on January 08, 100 at 18:57:41: Re: (110.
) What's killing my gourami? posted by Ed on January 08, 100 at 18:52:37:
well, i dont know that much about gouramis, but what store are you buying your fish from? if all the sick ones are coming from teh same store, stop buying from that place! if thats not case, sorry

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From: Ed 1/08/00
Subject: Re: What's killing my gourami? Posted by Ed on January 08, 100 at 19:30:12: Re: (111.
) Re: What's killing my gourami? posted by amber on January 08, 100 at 18:57:41:
They've come from four different stores. Thanks for trying, though, Amber. Oh, and BTW, I also add salt... maintaining a level of one cup for 50 gallons.

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From: amber 1/09/00
Subject: Re: What's killing my gourami? Posted by amber on January 09, 100 at 09:08:47: Re: (113.
) Re: What's killing my gourami? posted by Ed on January 08, 100 at 19:30:12:
those stores may all be getting their fish from the same breeder...ask other people who bought gourami from those stores and find out if the same thing is happening to them, or even contact the breeder of the gouramis

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From: lynn 1/08/00
Subject: Koi Fish Posted by lynn on January 08, 100 at 11:08:56:
Hi anyone know of a cite where I can get information on Koi fish? Prices and care. thank you

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From: Mia 1/08/00
Subject: Re: Koi Fish Posted by (mailto:Chia Jen 101@aol.com) Mia on January 08, 100 at 21:43:30: Re: (107.
) Koi Fish posted by lynn on January 08, 100 at 11:08:56:
This site is great. They have so much information available for you. Good luck. http://freshaquarium.miningco.com/home/freshaquarium/msub26.htm

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From: James 1/07/00
Subject: Favourite fish poll Posted by (mailto:thecowman@hotmail.com) James on January 07, 100 at 18:11:35:
Why is there a fish called Chi on the favourite fish poll?? Could i have some info on this fish?

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From: Clint 1/07/00
Subject: Re: Favourite fish poll Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint on January 07, 100 at 20:09:49: Re: (102.
) Favourite fish poll posted by James on January 07, 100 at 18:11:35:
Someone just put that as a choice. I don't think there is such a fish. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=
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From: amber 1/06/00
Subject: Aquababies >: ( Posted by amber on January 06, 100 at 18:15:28:
I sent a letter to aquababies and i thought you guys m ight like to see what they say..i'll post more up when they respond later
From: "AquaBabies"
Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2000 11:37:34 -0800
To: "Amber"
Subject: Re: Small Question
The rule of thumb is ridiculous. The requirements of space and feed go up as a fish gains mass not length. Take trout: at 3/4 of an inch there are 2,000/lb. but at just 1 1/4 inch there are 800 yet both of these fish are roughly one inch. That means almost 3 fish at 3/4 gm have the same requirements as only one fish at 1 1/4 gm. Most of our fish are 6 weeks to 2 months in age and weigh 1/10 gm whereas an adult danio may weigh 10 times this amount. The frogs only reach 1-2 inches.
Karen
-----Original Message-----
From: Amber
To: aquababies@aquababies.com
Date: Thursday, December 23, 1999 4:49 PM
Subject: Small Question
I do not understand why the tank you have for the fish and frogs is so small. The basic rule for having healthy happy fish is inch of fish per gallon. The tank you sell is definetly not a gallon. Yet you put up to 5 fish in one cube! The type of fish you put in the tank are not suitable for that type of environment. Tetras, white clouds, African Dwarf Frogs, fancy guppies are all tropical. The need a heater and a filter. Especially guppies. If you guys are going to continue this horrible way of profit, please use at least a one gallon tank with a frog or just a snail. The type of fish you sell are tropical and need a heater and filteration. The frogs can survive in a one gallon tank with no heater or filter. I am writing this because I care about all the fish that you put in the chambers. Please think of changing your ways. More people will buy if the tanks are PROVEN SAFE. The word is getting around. Soon enough people will realize that buying a cube of fish for $20 and having them die a month later is stupid, they'll spread the word to others, and before you know it you are out of business. Again, please change your ways. I would appreciate it if you got back to me. thank you.
Sincerely,
Amber Carter
San Jose, CA

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From: Kristen 1/07/00
Subject: Re: Aquababies >: ( Posted by Kristen on January 07, 100 at 05:08:26: Re: (97.
) Aquababies >: ( posted by amber on January 06, 100 at 18:15:28:
For those of you who might be interested, there is a "Boycott Aquababies" website that includes an on-line petition against these tiny fish prisons and many stories of people who bought them and certainly regret it now (some of these people quickly realized their error and went out an bought full aquarium set-ups to save their fish!). I can't recall the web address off the top of my head, but if you type "aquababies" into your search engine, the link should display. The more I read about these things, the more disgusted I became. Amber, the letter you got back from Aquababies is typical of their response to all who write them with concerns or protests. It really bothers me when a company takes profit over the well being of animals or our environment.

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From: kitty fish 1/07/00
Subject: Re: Aquababies >: ( Posted by kitty fish on January 07, 100 at 13:58:18: Re: (98.
) Re: Aquababies >: ( posted by Kristen on January 07, 100 at 05:08:26:
i think the boycott aquababies site is at Redkat's Aquaria (www.rk2000.com). that's the only one i know of at the moment. and i am VERY surprised that aquababies took the time to actually write out a personal response to you! at the beginning of Redkat's boycott, everyone got automated responses, not that either of them convince anyone that their products are safe. potential aquababies buyers should definitely be educated about proper fish keeping and not drug into the world of fish keeping by a spur of the moment purchase of a "novel" product. kitty fish ps- www.fish2u.com also sells a similar version of aquababies, and though i dont know the site, there are "tiny tanks" out there too. :(

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From: Dave 1/08/00
Subject: Re: Aquababies >: ( Posted by Dave on January 08, 100 at 19:18:35: Re: (101.
) Re: Aquababies >: ( posted by kitty fish on January 07, 100 at 13:58:18:
In response to your letter> There are some UK based companies that think the same. For example, in a recent publication I read by one of them they stated 'A two gallon tank is suitable for 6 goldfish'. They also said airiation and filteration is not needed, and i've heard that if you go to there shops and look at the tanks about 10% of fish will be dead, with the others eating it.

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From: michael 1/06/00
Subject: SHARKS FOR FREE! Posted by (mailto:lifeeng@aol.com) michael on January 06, 100 at 11:58:32:
I have three nurse sharks that have been in our aquariums for over two years. they are wonderful eaters, and need a good home. Do you have a large salt tank? I am in the Northern California area. 408-314-0996

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From: Victor 1/06/00
Subject: Painful Passing Posted by (mailto:VABrito@aol.com) Victor on January 06, 100 at 09:22:16:
Last night I discovered one of my Neons had passed. I am so heartbroken. I wanted to share a poem I wrote for him to help me heal. I didn't get to name him because there were five, so I'll just call him: One of Five. One of Five
He is no more
Gone to live by the northern shore.
Gods great ocean
Of sparkling white
Is where he swims with moonbeams bright.
In the evening sky
His colors can be seen
A streak of red under bluish green.
One of Five
He is no more
Lonelier now are Four of Four

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From: Jose 1/07/00
Subject: Re: Painful Passing Posted by (mailto:FrankPA99@aol.com) Jose on January 07, 100 at 09:39:42: Re: (92.
) Painful Passing posted by Victor on January 06, 100 at 09:22:16:
The poem is moving... Have you checked you water quality? (=ammonia/nitrite/nitrate/pH/temperature/hardness) Jose

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From: amber 1/06/00
Subject: Re: Painful Passing Posted by amber on January 06, 100 at 17:53:20: Re: (92.
) Painful Passing posted by Victor on January 06, 100 at 09:22:16:
thats a sweet poem

93.
From: LBowes 1/06/00
Subject: Re: Painful Passing Posted by (mailto:Belinda@vax2.concordia.ca) LBowes on January 06, 100 at 09:40:26: Re: (92.
) Painful Passing posted by Victor on January 06, 100 at 09:22:16:
Isn't it amaing how attached we can become to something we can't hold or caress. My sympathies on your loss. Your poem is lovely. It tears my heart out whenever I lose one of mine.

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From: Kristen 1/05/00
Subject: Cory Cats and Zebar Danios Posted by Kristen on January 05, 100 at 04:35:17:
Do different species of cory cats (for example bronze cories and another type of cory) get along ok and will they school or swim together well? I have two bronze cories now and was thinging about getting two more. I'm pretty sure all cories get along well, but if it's a better idea to stick with the same kind, I can always do that. Also, I have a group of four zebra danios. Usually they are pigs at dinner time and are extremely active. Every few weeks, they seem to all huddle along the bottom around one particular fish for about a day. Then, three of the danios go back to their daily routine, but the fourth one that seemed to be the center of attention the previous day stays around the bottom and not eating much at all for about three more days. Then the fish is fine again swimming and eating with the others. I have a feeling I have three males and one female. The one female spawns (attracting the others) and then needs a few days to recover. Does that sound logical? I've never noticed any eggs or fry, but then I'm not trying to breed these guys either - I have NO space for fry tanks. I've read that danios tend to eat their fry. Any opinions?

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From: Clint 1/07/00
Subject: Re: Cory Cats and Zebar Danios Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint on January 07, 100 at 20:17:28: Re: (85.
) Cory Cats and Zebar Danios posted by Kristen on January 05, 100 at 04:35:17:
I believe that most cory types will get along fine and school with others. Also they will probably interbreed. Sounds to me like you have guessed right about the Zebras. If you'd like to recover some eggs or fry I'd use a gravel cleaner vacuum around the spawning spot and keep all the debris you get in another tank or container, if they are indeed spawning you should see some fry swimming around in a few days. And the gunk that you get along with the eggs will provide some food for them for a little while.

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From: Jill 1/04/00
Subject: 85 gallon tank... need advice on fish compatability Posted by (mailto:jill@bronzepig.com) Jill on January 04, 100 at 19:20:35:
well I am now upgrading from a 10 gallon to a whopping (for me ;-) 85 gallon tank. and I need some advice on it's soon to be occupants. I did a bit of research and this is what i've come up with in terms of what I think would make a nice set up, not goin for any specific type or world region for this tank, just pretty fish that will het along together peacefully,so I got a little bit of everything, and that's what I want, which is msotly why I'm asking their compatability. anyway, here's the fish, I know I have a few too many, but i was hoping someone could point out the ones that don't quite fit: Bala Shark 1 or 2 (depending on whether I get the gouramis) 2 kirbensis and/or 2-3 keyhole chichlid, if the kirbensis doesn't work out 4 dwarf gorurami 2 pearl gourami a school of 6-8 harlequin rasboras 2 angel fish (my dad is adamant about this one, he really likes them so I'd like tem to stay if possible) a school of 6 black Widow tetras (already have some of these, so pretty much a given) 3 clown loaches and/or 4 corydoras for cleaning up the bottom, and they're cute too a pleco for cleanin the glass and a team of Ottos for the plants was also planning on cycling with guppies or platys, so if all goes well they'll be ahnging aorund afterwrards too so, which ones should go? do I have any compatability problems with this? and suggestions of ones that may work better? I know the bala shark will get very large, but my throught is that by that time as I understand they grow very slowly, some of the fish's natural lifespans, like the tetras, since they are already about a year old, would have ended, making room. and I know I have to eliminate a couple, but if no compatabilty probs, it'll jsut be on availability or aesthetics that I decide oh one more thing; I have this long term plan which I *think* will work, but want opinion again. I was thinking, I always liked Oscars, but can't keep one yet as I'm going away to college (the reason for the 85 gallon tank, so my family will take care of it when I'm gone, larger tank easier to keep it stable etc...) anyway, what I was thinking was have the community tank till the Bala Sharks grow out, maybe get another type of fish that will grow fairly large that is peaceful (any suggestions?) then get an oscar or two for the tank when they've reached a good size. giving the other fish to friends or starting another community tank, or getting a larger tank for the oscar/bala sharks. does this sound lieka reasonable plan? how long exaclty does it take a bala shark to grow to a safe size to be placed with oscars? thanks! I know it's practically a novel

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From: Jose 1/05/00
Subject: Re: 85 gallon tank... need advice on fish compatability Posted by (mailto:FrankPA99@aol.com) Jose on January 05, 100 at 20:31:26: Re: (82.
) 85 gallon tank... need advice on fish compatability posted by Jill on January 04, 100 at 19:20:35:
Congratulations on your new 85-gal tank!!! I see a few problems with your plans... First of all, if you're planning on adding bala sharks to the tank, forget about live plants, they'll devour them in no time (vegetarians). They're best kept in groups of three or more, and in my experience, they grow very fast!! Oscars in the tank with all of those fish? Definitely a no-no!! Oscars can reach well over 15", they are quite aggressive toward smaller fish (than their size), and will eat anything that fits into their mouth (including cockroaches). Many people would advice an 85-gal tank for just "one" oscar! At breeding time, there'll be no other fish left if you keep pair in the tank with companion. If you absolutely must have cichlids, go with South American cichlids, and do read about them carefully. Most of them are aggressive (and incompatible with paceful gouramis, etc...). Some like blue rams may be OK (require exquisite water quality). African cichlids are incompatible with the fish you're planning on keeping based on their temper, and most of all on the water conditions they enjoy (very hard and alkaline water with several minerals in quantities that would cause distress to some fish such as the numerous tetras that you're planning on housing in your tank). Keep in mind that the 1" fish lenght(not counting the tail)/gal is not universal, and that fish such as bala sharks and angels do require much more than just one gal per inch. Take your time and read on the fish you want to keep. Have you thought about the fishless cycling method to cycle your tank? It offers several advantages over the "conventional" method of adding a few hardy fish... Good luck and enjoy your tank!!!
Jose

81.
From: Dave 1/04/00
Subject: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. Posted by Dave on January 04, 100 at 17:33:51:
Sorry to bother you guys again, My parents have a Kuhli loach and when I phoned them yesterday to ask advice on my fish, they say the loach is covered in a 'white like growth' (sounds like whitespot to me) and say they want to use methylene blue to treat the tank. After reading your advice files here, would salt be better (they have an established setup with an UG filter) as methylene blue might damage the bacterial colonies? An advice appreciated, Dave

84.
From: Clint 1/04/00
Subject: Re: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint on January 04, 100 at 20:47:49: Re: (81.
) Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. posted by Dave on January 04, 100 at 17:33:51:
Sounds more like a fungus to me. But a copper based med would do the trick either way.
Clint

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From: Dave 1/05/00
Subject: Re: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. Posted by Dave on January 05, 100 at 11:41:24: Re: (84.
) Re: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. posted by Clint on January 04, 100 at 20:47:49:
How about protozin?

86.
From: Dave 1/05/00
Subject: Re: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. Posted by Dave on January 05, 100 at 11:41:16: Re: (84.
) Re: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. posted by Clint on January 04, 100 at 20:47:49:
How about protozin?

105.
From: Clint 1/07/00
Subject: Re: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint on January 07, 100 at 20:19:25: Re: (86.
) Re: Kuhli loach... not a happy fish. posted by Dave on January 05, 100 at 11:41:16:
if it's copper based or has copper as an ingredient it should work. I'm not personally familiar with protozin. CN

79.
From: AC 1/04/00
Subject: 29 gal Posted by AC on January 04, 100 at 16:15:06:
Last summer I took in a 10 gallon tank with a large angelfish, half foot pleco, 1 black skirt, 1 glass fish, and another type of tetra that has the body of a black skirt, without the long fins, and is light pink on top and white on the belly. My mom thinks it is a Neon (not neon tetra) But we aren't sure. It is slightly aggressive towards the black skirts, but otherwise is peaceful. I have not seen this type of fish at any pet stores either. We would ask the lady who owned the tank, but she had a friend take care of the tank and they werent taking good care of the fish at all, so we rescued the fish. And they will soon be going in a nice 29 gallon aquarium....Also, what type of catfish would be compatible with a large angel, black skirt, glass fish, and the "neon" fish? Sorry this is so long. Thanks.

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From: Jose 1/05/00
Subject: Re: 29 gal Posted by (mailto:FrankPA99@aol.com) Jose on January 05, 100 at 20:37:26: Re: (79.
) 29 gal posted by AC on January 04, 100 at 16:15:06:
In my opinion, none! Your 10-gal tank was way too crowded!!! I am surprised that all of those fish were able to survive!!! The general rule for stocking a tank is 1" of fish length/gal of water, do the math.... This rule is not universal, as angels, discuss, bala sharks, plecos, etc...do require more than one gal per inch to live adequately. You might want to trade the large angel and the half-foot pleco for smaller fish. If that's the case, you could add some other schooling fish to the 29-gal such as giant danios, zebra danios, serpae tetras, rosy barbs, etc... (not that you can add all of those, they're schooling fish, and hence should be kept in groups of four or more). This is just a well-intentioned opinion, no destructive criticism here.
Good luck,
Jose

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From: ac 1/06/00
Subject: Re: 29 gal Posted by ac on January 06, 100 at 17:48:22: Re: (90.
) Re: 29 gal posted by Jose on January 05, 100 at 20:37:26:
well see, we took in the tank with those fish already in there because they were mistreated, and we couldnt get a big old aquarium right away, i know the tank is overcrowded...the person who set up the tank was (is) an inexperienced aquariumist (sp?) thanks for your help

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From: Victor 1/04/00
Subject: Re: 29 gal Posted by (mailto:VABrito@aol.com) Victor on January 04, 100 at 16:44:53: Re: (79.
) 29 gal posted by AC on January 04, 100 at 16:15:06:
I must say I am partial to Cory Cats. Unlike the suckermouth catfish, they are all over the tank. Skimming the bottom the sides of the glass, the surfaces of the plants and ornaments. They are very active and in their own adorable way very clumbsy. I love when a school of fish are grouped together having some "down time" and the Cories just barrel into them, sending them scattering. It's not intentional on the Cories part, they are just clumbsy like that. That is part of their charm. But if you like a catfish that stays in one place and has very minimal movement the suckermouth catfish is for you. They will attach themselves to the aquarium glass and hang around for all eternity, or until you drop a tablet of food in for them. Don't purchase the catfish too young. I made the mistake of doing that and the catfish will float frightend at the top surface of the water like a fry. Some don't recover. I can't go into details, but take it from me, don't buy too young!

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From: Linda 1/04/00
Subject: cloudy water still Posted by (mailto:lindafrisbie@netscape.net) Linda on January 04, 100 at 02:59:33:
we added some filtraid last night its still cloudy this morning , does running the filter pack through cold water cause cloudyness , My husband may have done that the pleco is pretty big cant estimate how big he tends to like laying upside down in the clam shell and let the air bubbles run over him (must think its his jacuzzi lol) the glassfish we have is doing real well , the dye is just about gone so I guess the hard part is over we did loose one glassfish early , the one we have and our bala shark are best buds they follow each other around all day long , we also added a frog now like I am ready for that Im still trying to get the fish thing down but any way the frog has been under the filter ledge doesnt seem stuck though we got him out of there once and he went right back so hope all is ok with him , any suggestions on frogs would be appreciated , sorry Im babbling Linda

78.
From: amber 1/04/00
Subject: Re: cloudy water still Posted by amber on January 04, 100 at 16:04:35: Re: (73.
) cloudy water still posted by Linda on January 04, 100 at 02:59:33:
what kind of frog do you have?

108.
From: Linda 1/08/00
Subject: Re: cloudy water still Posted by Linda on January 08, 100 at 13:52:14: Re: (78.
) Re: cloudy water still posted by amber on January 04, 100 at 16:04:35:
the frog unfortunetly died the next day we arent sure why Linda

74.
From: Victor 1/04/00
Subject: Re: cloudy water still Posted by (mailto:VABrito@aol.com) Victor on January 04, 100 at 10:16:25: Re: (73.
) cloudy water still posted by Linda on January 04, 100 at 02:59:33:
Please tell your husband that if you are initialy intalling the carbon in the filter new, it doesn't matter if you rinse it in warm or cold water, BUT, if you are doing your weekly rinse, you should rinse it in water the same temperature as your aquarium. Also I have thought about using a piece of foam sponge attached to the tank with airline tubing and suction cups, right at the water line to aid in adding some "housing" for bacteria. The bacteria aids tremendously in reducing cloudiness. You might want to try that. Let me know if it helps. Or, do like I did and buy a sponge filter.

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From: Victor 1/03/00
Subject: Chanda Ranga (Glass Fish) Posted by (mailto:VABrito@aol.com) Victor on January 03, 100 at 22:55:48:
I read Linda's message regarding her glass fish and I had to comment that, I too, fell in love with the glass fish at first site. I bought two to "seed" my new tank. They were so shy and timid. They loved to be alone. They would swim together from one end of the tank to the other. I really enjoyed the time I had with them. I even named them, Greenman and Redman (although he was purple). They had their personalities, for sure! Unfortunately, Greenman got Ick. I can't go into details. I mourned for two weeks...and started over again, and I am happy to proclaim NO MORE LOSS!
The information I found here on Petfish.net was the most comprehensive I have found on the Internet regarding the Chanda Ranga.
Thanks Petfish.net!
Note: If you really love the Chanda Ranga, you can ask your local aquarist if they have a supplier of Non-Painted Glass fish. I saw a school of them in a dealers store and they were beautifully crystal clear and healthy!

75.
From: Linda 1/04/00
Subject: Re: Chanda Ranga (Glass Fish) Posted by Linda on January 04, 100 at 12:05:23: Re: (72.
) Chanda Ranga (Glass Fish) posted by Victor on January 03, 100 at 22:55:48:
I too love to look at the glass fish but when I bought them i didnt realize that they injected them with dye to make the color , I would never support such a thing happening , the glass fish are just as pretty without the dye but now a store owner told me they do it a new way and put the fish in dyed water so not to inject them but does this sound any safer then injection? Im not so sure so if I do buy another one it will be just clear thanks again Linda

77.
From: Victor 1/04/00
Subject: Re: Chanda Ranga (Glass Fish) Posted by (mailto:VABrito@aol.com) Victor on January 04, 100 at 15:43:55: Re: (75.
) Re: Chanda Ranga (Glass Fish) posted by Linda on January 04, 100 at 12:05:23:
From what I understand the new way of "Painting" glass fish is to chemically strip the slime coating off the glass fish and drop them in the neon dye. Then they put the fish in a caustic agent that irritate the fishes skin (?)(scales) and increases the speed in which the slime coating restores itself. All of this still sounds like fishy torture to me. I wonder if the people that do this would like to be stripped and thrown in a vat of dye and then shoved in caustic chemicals all for the sake of adding a little color. I think they should be left in their natural state. I have also seen in the pet shops Black Skirt Tetras which are also artificially dyed in the same method. The color is softer and more uniform, but since learning of the method of colorization I personally will not buy one of these fish.

109.
From: Linda 1/08/00
Subject: Re: Chanda Ranga (Glass Fish) Posted by Linda on January 08, 100 at 13:54:32: Re: (77.
) Re: Chanda Ranga (Glass Fish) posted by Victor on January 04, 100 at 15:43:55:
I will not buy any more painted glassfish I do like the glass fish but if I buy one it will be clear and natural , Linda

63.
From: Lbowes 1/03/00
Subject: PH Problem Posted by (mailto:belinda@vax2.concordia.ca) Lbowes on January 03, 100 at 07:37:29:
I hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday. Funny how the new millennium looks just like the old one (ha, ha). Anyhow, my question is as follows: Last summer, my 50 gl tank suddenly had a Ph spike. I mean it was almost at 10. I lost all my angel fish and a couple of others. I use peat blocks under the gravel. I constantly check the PH since then and it stays steady at 7. Over the holidays, I was talking to someone and it seems the same thing happened to them just recently. They lost all but one of their fish. Does anyone have any ideas what might be the cause of this?

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From: Jose 1/05/00
Subject: Re: PH Problem Posted by (mailto:FrankPA99@aol.com) Jose on January 05, 100 at 20:09:51: Re: (63.
) PH Problem posted by Lbowes on January 03, 100 at 07:37:29:
Hi Lbowes, how often do you replace your peat blocks? They're not good for ever... A change in your local water conditions is also a possiblity... Do you check the pH of your tap water before you do your water changes? I don't, but since you had that problem, it may not be a bad idea... Excessive total hardness can cause an increase in pH. Jose

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From: LBowes 1/06/00
Subject: Re: PH Problem Posted by (mailto:belinda@vax2.concordia.ca) LBowes on January 06, 100 at 07:16:59: Re: (88.
) Re: PH Problem posted by Jose on January 05, 100 at 20:09:51:
I change the peat blocks about every 6 months (really messy job). I did check my tap water at the time I had a problem. It was very high in PH. Since then, tho, the PH has remained at a level of 7 both in the tank and the tap. It seems that it spiked for a short time and I haven't figured out why. I now check regularly so I hopefully can catch any problems in time. Little side note: Pharmacies sell papers for checking PH that are much easier to read and cost a lot less.

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From: Clint 1/02/100 Subject: I'm back (a short vacation) Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint on January 02, 19100 at 12:20:43:
Hi people I'm back, I had a little holiday vacation. But it looks like some of the old timers have done an excellent job of answering the questions. The first thing I noticed though was the Y2K bug has hit this message board as you can tell by the dates on the latest posts 01/01/100 ? I have attempted to fix it and I will see with this post. Clint

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From: Clint Norwood 1/02/100 Subject: 2nd attempt to fix the date problem n/m Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint Norwood on January 02, 100 at 12:27:03: Re: (48.
) I'm back (a short vacation) posted by Clint on January 02, 19100 at 12:20:43:
2nd attempt to fix the date problem n/m

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From: Clint 1/02 Subject: 3rd attempt to fix the date problem n/m Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint on January 02, 100 at 12:33:07: Re: (49.
) 2nd attempt to fix the date problem n/m posted by Clint Norwood on January 02, 100 at 12:27:03:
3rd attempt to fix the date problem n/m

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From: Clint 1/02/00
Subject: 4th attempt to fix the date problem n/m Posted by (mailto:clint@petfish.net) Clint on January 02, 100 at 12:38:04: Re: (50.
) 3rd attempt to fix the date problem n/m posted by Clint on January 02, 100 at 12:33:07:
4th attempt to fix the date problem n/m

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From: Dave 1/02/100 Subject: Help! Posted by (mailto:Geneticsdave@hotmail.com) Dave on January 02, 19100 at 08:00:57:
I wonder if anyone can give me some advice here. I've just started up a small (4 gallon) tank with the aim of keeping a couple of small goldfish. I set up the tank and left it about two weeks, then introduced one small goldfish. After about 2 days the water went really cloudy, and the fish seemed to be gulping for air. I increased the airiation but this has not helped. I then done a 30% water change, but still no luck. I am aware that when starting a tank and cycling it, it is not uncommon to 'loose' the first fish. What should I do?

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From: Lbowes 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by (mailto:Belinda@vax2.concordia.ca) Lbowes on January 03, 100 at 07:44:06: Re: (45.
) Help! posted by Dave on January 02, 19100 at 08:00:57:
If you are sure it is an oxygen problem, and only in severe cases, I read of a simple solution. For 20 gl tanks, add 1/4 cup of 30% hydrogen peroxide (the same stuff you can get at the drug store for cleaning wounds). This will not only add oxygen to the tank, but has a cleansing quality as well. As yours is a small tank, I would not suggest more than 1 tablespoon. I got this out of a very good (but complicated) fish book.

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From: LBowes 1/07/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by (mailto:belinda@vax2.concordia.ca) LBowes on January 07, 100 at 11:34:07: Re: (64.
) Re: Help! posted by Lbowes on January 03, 100 at 07:44:06:
Sorry, I just noticed in my other reply I put 30% Hydrogen Peroxide. I meant 3%.

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From: Dave 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by Dave on January 03, 100 at 09:20:17: Re: (64.
) Re: Help! posted by Lbowes on January 03, 100 at 07:44:06:
Not completely sure it's an oxygen problem, but looks like it. Have moved the outlet of my filter so half is in the water and half is out, which really splashes the top layer of water around. Fish is looking more happy after about two hours of this. Have also got a bubble curtain which might help with the airiation too. Unfortunately, you can't by peroxide here in England, but I work in a lab and have found a bottle of 100% but don't want to use it (don't know what chemicals may have got into there) - will look for an unopened bottle if the problem continues. Thanks for the advice, Dave

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From: Victor 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by (mailto:VABrito@aol.com) Victor on January 03, 100 at 17:09:08: Re: (67.
) Re: Help! posted by Dave on January 03, 100 at 09:20:17:
Most pharmacies in the US sell Hydrogen Peroxide as a 3% solution. Take it from there. Good luck.

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From: Jose 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by (mailto:FrankPA99@aol.com) Jose on January 03, 100 at 07:18:18: Re: (45.
) Help! posted by Dave on January 02, 19100 at 08:00:57:
Hi Dave. I haven't read the other responses, so I may be a bit redundant here... First of all, a 4-gal tank is by no means adequate for keeping goldfish, they need a minimum of 5-gal of water each! They're extremely messy and produce lots of wastes... The gulping for air at the surface is indeed an indication of poor water oxygenation/quality. Have you monitor for ammonia and nitrite? Ammonia should be high at this point (given the reduced volume of the tank and the already-mentioned messing capacity of goldfish). Increasing the aereation will promote gaseous exchange at the surface (evaporation of CO2 and oxygenation of the water to a certain extent...). The bubbles themselves do practically nothing to increase oxygen levels in the water. The best you can do at this point IMO is to do a 20% water change daily for a couple of days to see if the fish condition becomes more stable...(less gulping for air). Observe its gills, as increased respiratory rate is a sign of incipient ammonia toxicity (which is inevitably lethal). I would take the goldfish back to your LFS and exchange it for more suitable fish. Alternative, you could get (if you can afford it, have the space, etc...) a larger tank. The smaller the tank, the harder it is to maintain. Finally, you're right, it's not uncommon to lose the first fish when starting a cycle, but it's definitely preventable! Frequent partial water changes (from twice a week to every day) will do the trick of losing your fish. If you have a filter, don't clean in any of its parts until the cycle is complete (0ppm ammonia and 0ppm nitrite). I would abstain from vacuuming the gravel. Try feeding your goldfish once a day for now, and only the amount they will eat. Overfeeding will make things worse (added ammonia production from decomposing uneaten particles). Good luck! Jose

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From: Jinlong 1/02/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by (mailto:psross@aol.com) Jinlong on January 02, 100 at 15:39:47: Re: (45.
) Help! posted by Dave on January 02, 19100 at 08:00:57:
I'd have to agree that goldfish aren't the best or easiest fish to keep. (Personally, I'm an angel and cory cat fan myself) However, my four-year old son won three feeder goldfish at the carnival (thank you, school whose name shall remain unmentioned - NOT) which have lived happily and healthily in a 4-gallon eclipse system for over a year with weekly water changes of 25%. The largest of these is about an inch and a half long now (twice initial size). Eventually, however, I'll move them to a ten gallon tank, once they get LARGE. For now, though, they seem relatively happy. I also agree it's not necessary to lose the first fish (we never have, in 10 years and six aquariums) - keep after the water changes and consult a reputable local professional if you need to (Hint: NOT "petco"- type places - find a local mom & pop fish store that breeds their own).

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From: kitty fish 1/02/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by kitty fish on January 02, 100 at 18:18:36: Re: (55.
) Re: Help! posted by Jinlong on January 02, 100 at 15:39:47:
your goldfish will NOT get large in a 4 gallon tank, theres just not enough room, not enough clean water. i think theres a study out somewhere showing that fish produce hormones that impede growth when a pond, or in this case a tank. in order to keep these hormones diluted, you need a very large tank, or extremely frequent water changes. though you think your fish seem happy, or fine in their tank, if you couldve kept your fish properly, with enough room for them to grow and thrive you would now have some 5-6 inch, large-finned beauties. now you have stunted, unhappy, little creatures that struggle everyday. if you would have only learned more about the fish before you, or your child in this case, impulsively acquired them, you, and they, would be much happier. im sorry, but this is a subject i feel extremely strong about. kitty fish

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From: Jinlong 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by (mailto:psross@aol.com) Jinlong on January 03, 100 at 00:13:10: Re: (56.
) Re: Help! posted by kitty fish on January 02, 100 at 18:18:36:
I'm aware - from your tone - that you feel very strongly about this. I HAVE a great deal of information about most varieties of tropical fish, having kept aquariums for over ten years. I wasn't present when my son acquired the fish - but wasn't about to get rid of them once we had them. Since they've doubled in size and, according to a local breeder and their behavior, seem to be doing fine, I feel I'm doing the best I can for the little guys. And I do weekly water changes of 25-30%, so the water stays extremely clear.

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From: Dave 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by Dave on January 03, 100 at 04:04:03: Re: (57.
) Re: Help! posted by Jinlong on January 03, 100 at 00:13:10:
Thanks for the advice everyone. I done a 30% water change yesterday and used less dechlorinator than before (I think I may have overdone the dechlorinator last time) and the cloudy water is now clear. Regarding the health of the fish, I have much increased the airiation in the tank and it seems to be perfectly happy now. I have a small fluval type internal tank filter with activated carbon and biopolymer, and an undergravel filter system. When the fish grows a little larger (providing it survives the tank cycling) it will be donated to my parents, whom have a much larger tank than mine (must be >40 gallons) - we don't want to keep the little fella somewhere where is does not want to be! As regards water changes, I will do 30% once a week to keep toxins low. Regarding fish producing hormones in there local environment limiting there growth - this strikes me as a natural evolutionary process allowing the fish in a particular ecosystem such as a pond (or the artificial ecosystem of a tank) not to outgrow the system thus overwhelming the food and oxygen supply which would be detremental to the fish. I have not seen this research myself however, so might just thake a look at it. Thanks, Dave

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From: amber 1/02/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by amber on January 02, 100 at 12:58:19: Re: (45.
) Help! posted by Dave on January 02, 19100 at 08:00:57:
for a 4 gallon tank i wouldn't get goldfish they are messy and hard to keep. the are bad first fish..i would get a betta and a couple white clouds, i have some and they get along fine

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From: kitty fish 1/02/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by kitty fish on January 02, 100 at 13:11:15: Re: (53.
) Re: Help! posted by amber on January 02, 100 at 12:58:19:
i agree goldfish are messy, and they are bad beginners fish, but with proper space and maintenance, they are very easy to keep, in my humblw opinion :P ;) kitty fish

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From: kitty fish 1/02/100 Subject: Re: Help! Posted by kitty fish on January 02, 19100 at 12:01:41: Re: (45.
) Help! posted by Dave on January 02, 19100 at 08:00:57:
well, you sound like youre doing *ok*.. pick up some test kits, and continue to do daily, or every other day %30 water changes, feed the fish very little. just because it is common to lose first fish doesnt mean that you SHOULD. secondly, and importantly, one goldfish, let alone two, cannot live happily in a four gallon tank. goldfish are great fish and i dont mean to scare you away from them, but one small fish should have at least 10 gallons of water to himself. goldfish are massive and produce lots of waste, they also have extremely high oxygen requirements. goldfish get big too! 6-8 inches for a fancy is about average, 10-12 for commons. keep up the water changes for now, and good luck! kitty fish

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From: Dave 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by Dave on January 03, 100 at 04:10:37: Re: (47.
) Re: Help! posted by kitty fish on January 02, 19100 at 12:01:41:
OK, i'll go for 30% every day. When the fish outgrows it's tank, are loaches suitable? Dave

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From: Diana 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by (mailto:Karmarats@aol.com) Diana on January 03, 100 at 06:44:33: Re: (59.
) Re: Help! posted by Dave on January 03, 100 at 04:10:37:
Depends on what kind of loaches... 4g is not much water.. Ive got a nice 5g tank which I wont ever put more than a betta and a 3 corrys in if I can help it... but thaats me. I'd suggest getting some real plants for your set up as long as you have the gold fish, it may help your watter a bit and be attractive at the same time..

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From: Dave 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by Dave on January 03, 100 at 08:55:03: Re: (60.
) Re: Help! posted by Diana on January 03, 100 at 06:44:33:
Thanks for the suggestion Diana. I've heard that top floating plants provide the most oxygen, but i'll see whats around. I have just got an activated charcoal cartridge and now one of those bubble wall things so they should help a bit too. Dave

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From: kitty fish 1/03/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by kitty fish on January 03, 100 at 13:46:20: Re: (66.
) Re: Help! posted by Dave on January 03, 100 at 08:55:03:
sounds like youre doing good dave. but i think carbon shouldnt be used in tanks containing live plants (personally, ive never kept live plants, and so i wouldnt know). your biological filter (the bacteria) should suffice if you want live plants, also, with so much aeration and frequent water changes the chemicals plants need to live will be less present than in a tank with little surface agitation. i say skip the plants for a couple months til youve got something established. if you still decide to keep the goldfish, you could keep him by himself in a 10-15 gallon, or with a friend in a 20. good luck! kitty fish

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From: Dave 1/04/00
Subject: Re: Help! Posted by Dave on January 04, 100 at 15:15:52: Re: (68.
) Re: Help! posted by kitty fish on January 03, 100 at 13:46:20:
Thanks Kitty! The fish is acting normally now, and i've given the plants a bit of thought - I have good old plastic ones at the moment - I know live plants can be messy and if they start to rot, don't do the water much good. Also, the fish will probably eat them all anyhow (or just chew them to pieces!). Tested for nitrite, nitrate and ammonia today - experiencing a ammonia spike. Will do 25% water change every day. Thanks for the advice, Dave