Why is my molly fish floating at the top and having trouble swimming?

Question

I think my Lyretail Dalmatian molly has the swimmers bladder issue. I have videos that i could send or I can take pictures later. She stays near the top of the tank and seems to have trouble using her rear fin. Pet's info: Fish | Tropical Fish | Female | 0 lbs

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Check the water chemistry and quality. You can use a home test kit or submit a water sample for testing. The local Petco may do this for free or for a small fee. Aim for an absence (0 ppm) of ammonia and nitrites with nitrates at 20ppm or less. Elevated ammonia or nitrite levels can be toxic and could drive the fish to the surface. Water that is too warm may also do the same since it holds less dissolved oxygen. This can happen if water temp is above 82 F. Perform a partial water change, if necessary, to stabilize chemistry and/or to improve water quality. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. To treat the swim bladder issue, fast her for 3 days, then feed bits of cooked and shelled green peas until swimming and defecation are normal. Constipation is a common cause of swim bladder disease. You can also consider a broad spectrum dewormer since parasites may also be the cause. Find one in the aquarium section of the local Petco. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated.

Why is my molly fish floating at the top and having trouble swimming?

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