Oto in big trouble I fear

[Thever]

Greeetings,

I have an Oto that is not doing well, seems a bit lathargic, and came home this evening to find him on the bottom on his side, thought he had gone to the great pond. I nudged him with the net and he took off but not too swiftly or gracefully. I got a bowl and put him in for a bit and he swam up the side and rolled down. I have my doubts he will survive the night. Any suggestions.

His home is a 10 gallon planted tank w/ 0 amm, 0 nitrite, 0 nitrate. His tank mates are 1 Red Cherry Shrimp, and 2 algae eating shrimp, and numerous snails. He's been in there about 10 days. Thanks for any help

 

[jonnythan]

Zero nitrates? Really?

What's the pH and temp?

 

[Thever]

temp is about 78
ph is about 8.5- didnt realize it was that high, just tested tap - its 7.8

He's not looking good, I feel bad if its my negligence

For a while my nitrates were sky high- that was before anybody was introduced to the water, but then it crashed down and when I test it- that water is mountain dew yellow

Ive got a tankfull of riccia and lack of proper nutrients - Ive got some dry ferts coming to get my nitrates up a little - just have some potassium and excel right now.

 

[Sahabo]

I've read a lot about new otos not making it shortly after you get them home. These links might help with future otos.

www.otocinclus.com - Home of the Dwarf Suckermouth Catfishes

OtoBehF

OtosAGs

 

[Thever]

As feared, oto has passed on. I'm hopeful that it isnt an issue w/ the tank and shrimp are next. Thank you Sahabo for the info, sad that they harvest them that way.

 

[Sahabo]

so sorry to hear that! I would hold off getting more otos until your tank is well established and stable.

 

[Thever]

Arent shrimp more sensitive to water problems?

 

[Sahabo]

hmmm... I don't have any experience keeping shrimp myself, so I'm not sure. Lots of others around here would probably know though!

 

[buddha_red]

yes shrimp are sensitive to water conditions.
If your worried do a pwc but im thinking its just a case of them being frail.