Why is my fish sick, gasping at surface with red fins in a small bowl?

Question

I have 2 salmenese tiger fish and two smaller fish in approximately 3.5 L bowl. I bought them on 1 April. 3 act normal but one act abnormal from first day. One salmenese tiger fish doesn't move much first it stayed at bottom now it's gapping at surface and if I try to catch to check it it goes down again. It's fins are turning red or I don't know if it already was. I don't understand how to help. Parents are out town so I can't go to shop. I am not sure if all are eating food. Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

The bowl looks definitively a bit small for the two fishes. To understand exactly what is going on you need to approach this problem radically but logically. Begin by submitting a water sample for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. Clinical examination should always include a water quality check, even if you have done so already. Water testing should be performed with a quality test kit, measuring NH4, NO2 and NO3. High ammonia levels, PH imbalances may be responsible for these signs. Oxygen concentration and quality of the filters should be determined as well. If water quality is good and there are no major imbalances, your fish should get examined to look for any sign of bacterial/fungal infection and eventually water should be treated. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Why is my fish sick, gasping at surface with red fins in a small bowl?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

Share