Fish Lying on the bottom of the tank

[meese-a-mew]

Heellp[. My jewel cichlid is just laying on the bottom of the tank. He or she is still eating but not doing much. Whats happening!!!

 

[fort384]

Can you tell us more about your tank?

Tank size
Tank mates
Water parameters (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, temp)
Age of tank
Maintenance schedule

 

[meese-a-mew]

Can you tell us more about your tank?

Tank size
Tank mates
Water parameters (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, temp)
Age of tank
Maintenance schedule

10g
Non
Dont have a test kit
3months
water change every 2days

 

[fort384]

You need to get a test kit. The place to start with fish illness is water parameters and water quality. If you cannot test your water, you cannot be sure of the environment you are providing.

The API freshwater master test kit is a good starter kit. It is a good balance of quality and price.

 

[eduguy]

Fish Disease - Ammonia Poisoning

It says lethargic fish can be from ammonia poison.
Definition of lethargic: Lethargic | Define Lethargic at Dictionary.com

 

[fort384]

Agreed that is probably the issue. The age of the tank, and the size of the tank would indicate this could very easily be the problem. But without a test kit it is impossible to know.

 

[eduguy]

If you live near Petsmart you can get a water sample for free.

 

[fort384]

I wouldn't trust these water readings.

1. They often use dip strip tests, which are inaccurate.

2. If they use the titration tests, many of the employees unfortunately do not do the tests correctly. Titration tests have to be performed in a specific manner to be remotely accurate.

 

[eduguy]

What are titration tests?

 

[fort384]

Let me google that for you

Consider picking up an API Freshwater Master test kit. It really is a must for responsible fish keeping.

Aquarium Water Testing: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Freshwater Master Test Kit

 

[eduguy]

Let me google that for you

Consider picking up an API Freshwater Master test kit. It really is a must for responsible fish keeping.

Aquarium Water Testing: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Freshwater Master Test Kit

Wow there cheaper in the US. In canada you can get it from petsmart for 33 dollars.