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I bought a new 65 gal tank for my cichlids & pleco. I ran the tank for a week before moving the fish, and expected a little adjustment time for the fish in their new home.

The cichlids usually swim around the bottom of the tank / hide in the rockwork, though now they're swimming up near the top of the tank more often. They swim near the bottom, though usually flip themselves sideways, sort of like they have an 'itch' they're scratching against the gravel. Is this normal? Or should I be concerned with the water quality / fish health?

Scratching or flashing is often a sign of parasites See: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?dept_id=0&siteid=6&acatid=412&aid=443

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Your tank may be cycling (in addition to parasite concerns), a week is not enough time.

Recommend testing Ammonia, Nitrites, Nitrates, Ph and posting the results.

The Amazon Nut...

I took the water to the LFS to be tested.. and the results were normal. They said the nitrates were *slightly* higher, but nothing to worry about. I'm due for a water change / vaccuuming next week anyhow, and that will take care of it.

None of the fish have any markings (white spots or abrasions) to their fins or bodies.. I've been watching them closely.

The fish are still swimming in the upper 1/4 of the tank, though they haven't been 'itching' against the gravel in a few days. I do have two bubbler wands in the tank, so there is plenty of oxygen for them.

Maybe my fish are just being silly..

Last edited by Phoenix at 23-Sep-2005 16:14

You should purchase a Test kit for ammonia, nitrItes, and NitrAtes.
You should never trust an LFS employee to tell you "normal" or "slightly high"
You should always find out exact numbers.
And if they used the dip strips, those are very ineffective.
I would say yes, it is probably a result of the ammonia levels climbing, that is why the fish are flicking.
If you have some Prime water conditioner add the amount stated.
if not, you could buy some,it would help.
Stresszyme or Biospira will also help.


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