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Why are my new angelfish not eating, bumping tank, and eye black?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

Hi I recently got six fish and four of them are good but two of them which are the same type of fish haven't eaten anything ever since I got them I don't know if it's the food. And one seems lost and keeps bumping into the tank and they usually stay in one place and one of its eyes are turning black. They are the black ones in the photos. Thank you

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1 Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 5th, 2017

The fish pictured are incompatible in the same tank. Angelfish (black ones) are tropical fish and do best in temps between 73 F and 84 F. Goldfish (white and orange) are cold water fish thriving in temps between 65 F and 72 F. It also appears as if one of your angels has some damage to a tail fin. This is typically due to fin nipping by other fish. You will need to remove either the angels or the goldfish and place them in a different tank. Check the water chemistry for elevated levels of ammonia or nitrites. This can occur in an uncycled tank or a tank that is overstocked. Partial water changes (30-50%) daily can decrease toxin levels. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Confirm your filter is rated for at least twice the water volume of the tank, especially for the goldfish. The links below provide additional information for care of angels and goldfish. http://aquariumtidings.com/angelfish-care/ http://aquariumtidings.com/all-about-goldfish-how-to-care-for-a-goldfish-fish-at-home/

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