Jack Dempsey HELP

[joshbou56]

Getting real frustrated with my jack Dempsey. He's about 6" long and about 8 months old. He constantly freaks out when I walk in the room. He whips around the tank smashing into things. Tonight I went to open the lead to feed my fish and he freaked out and splashed all over the place, soaking me with water. It's just getting really old. He used to be very social, he would come right up to the glass whenever I was in the room. Now all he does is get spooked and freak out. What should I do?

 

[Rivers2k]

Do you spend time just sitting in front of the tank watching him? Do you spend time sitting there when you feed him? He may need time to get used to you being there. Is there anyone else mainly kids around that could be spooking him?

If none of these are the answer you may want to add some dither fish that will let him know it safe to come out and swim. What kind would depend on what size tank you have.