Why Have My Rosy Barbs Lost Their Black Spots ?

[mpreston]

Since getting my 5 Rosie Barbs 4 weeks ago as my first fish in a fish in cycle 60l temerate Bi Orb they have got paler and lost their black spots? Are they ok? They seem really fit and healthy!

 

[fluttermoth]

It's most probably stress of some kind.

Is your tank cycled? Have you tested the water and/or done some large water changes? Do the fish have enough cover?

 

[mpreston]

It is in mid cycle, the only level which is high is nitrate at around 60. I change 20% per week at the mo and yes lots of cover!

 

[fluttermoth]

Well, if you're still mid cycle and you have had any level of ammonia or nitrite present, then that would explain it.

You probably need to be doing daily water changes rather than weekly, until you're cycled, after that weekly is fine.

 

[mpreston]

Thank you!