FishProfiles.com Message Forums

Okay, I am only in the first 2 wks of my new tank, just added 3 platys after the tank was cycling for a week, had frys the next day, all readings are normal, (did have ammonia go up from 0.25 to 0.50, going to do a 10% water change tonight). But every once in a while, one of the platys (a female I believe) just sits in the dark corner, by the heater, about an inch from the surface of the water, and just swims in place. (I would say floats in place, but she's not dead). She seems active the rest of the time. Should I be worried, or is this normal?

Thanks so much.

That's normal behavior for a tank that is cycling. You mentioned that it cycled for a week, that's not long enought to fully cycle the tank. Read thru this FAQ if you haven't already.

Since you mentioned ammonia levels it's either a mini-cycle, or more likely the first stage of the cycle. Doing water changes will lower ammonia levels but it'll also lengthen the time it takes for the tank to cycle which will also cause some stress to the fish.

I'd suggest increasing surface agitation with an airstone, and continue to watch closely....if the fish seem really stressed then do a water change, otherwise continue the cycle until it's complete.
Ammonia rise then drop to zero
NitrItes rise then drop to zero
NitrAtes rise and continue to build.
HTH a bit .

^_^



[/font]

Okay, now last nite, instead of sulking in the corner, one of the females was going nuts all over the tank. VERY active. THought she was planning an escape. Is that a sign of stress? I did find that a spider (rather big one) had found its way into the tank and was struggling on the top of the water. Was that the cause of the anxious behavior of the fish?