Hot Weather

[baz_78]

Ok, I had a death in the fish family last night - I found one of my tetras floating at the top of the tank looking quite deteriorated.

All had been present and counted in the morning so it had not been dead too long. All of the other fish were looking 'groggy' and lethargic when I discovered the dead one.

This morning they all seemed their normal selves swimming around happily. Could this have been down to the fact my tank got to around temps of 30-32 degrees celcius yesterday or to some other cause?

Unfortunately I can't post tank stats as all my testing kits are packed away (having some work done on the house)

I'm just curious to the cause as I don't want more deaths!! If it is down to the heat, what are your suggestions for keeping a cool(er) tank?

 

[Fillet 'O' Fish]

Water holds less Oxygen at higher temperatures.
Could it have been some of the work being done at your house? The builders havents droped something in your tank? Plaster dust etc?

Why dont you do a partial water change, which should add some Oxygen back.

 

[baz_78]

Water holds less Oxygen at higher temperatures.
Could it have been some of the work being done at your house? The builders havents droped something in your tank? Plaster dust etc?

Why dont you do a partial water change, which should add some Oxygen back.

No chance of it being the builders, I moved my tank upstairs over a week ago (it's the kitchen downstairs being done)

Will do the water change as soon as I get home tonight and see if they perk up any more!!

Thanks for the quick reply

 

[PaulEbs]

It's most likely this hot weather..

There are many ways to try and bring down the temparature, but most just fluctuate the water degree too much, and end up stressing fish even more.

The most effective methods, in my opinion, are;

• Placing all filter ouputs over the water surface, to create more surface disruption - thus allowing more oxygen into the tank
• Having a fan circulate air in the room where your fish are - if it's possible, it's even better to have it facing the water surface
• Daily water changes of 15% - replacing with really chilled water

Although, my tip would be to wait until the evening, when it's cooler, to do the water changes - as otherwise the water temp. will just rise once again!

Good luck,

Paul.

 

[Mr Miagi]

Increase the levels of oxygen also. As stated, warmer water holds less oxygen, so add an air stone or increase surface agitation via directing your filter outlet towards the surface (an airstone will also increase surface movement).