You could try putting a piece of stocking/tights (or 'pantyhose' if you're in the US...) over the filter intake to stop fish getting in, but it's usually fry that are at risk, or things like otos sneaking in and getting stuck. If your fish are getting sucked in while they're still alive, you could try this - as a temporary measure, it will at least stop the fish getting pulled in while you're sorting the tank out. Rinse it out really carefully first to get rid of any traces of detergent etc., and make sure there aren't any loose bits that a fish could get stuck in. You'll need to check it daily and rinse it as often as necessary so it doesn't get blocked and interfere with the flow through the filter.
I think it's really important to keep doing water changes, as it sounds like your fish are not entirely well and water quality is the most likely problem. If you can get a liquid test kit to check for ammonia and nitrite, this will show you what's going on - the kits aren't cheap but they last for ages and help you to see what state the water is in. Please don't add any more fish until your tank has stabilised - several weeks at least.
Good luck - sounds like things are moving in the right direction.
I think it's really important to keep doing water changes, as it sounds like your fish are not entirely well and water quality is the most likely problem. If you can get a liquid test kit to check for ammonia and nitrite, this will show you what's going on - the kits aren't cheap but they last for ages and help you to see what state the water is in. Please don't add any more fish until your tank has stabilised - several weeks at least.
Good luck - sounds like things are moving in the right direction.
) but a few survive each time. Don't be surprised if you lose some (or even all) of them this time - there will be more. If you look on the Livebearers section of this forum, there's lots of useful advice about feeding etc., and hints on how to tell when some more are expected.
