i think my fish are stressed out?

Question

i just got 4 new fish that are much smaller than the ones i had already and the big ones are always chasing the smaller ones around, they don't eat mush when i feed them and they seem to be losing their color? what can i do to help them are they stressed or am i doing something wrong?

Answer 1

You did not mention what fishes you have got, so I will take it as granted that you already know their compatibility. In that case its sometimes natural for the bigger fishes to chase the smaller ones, even though it may not result in the smaller fishes getting bitten or wounded, but yes, they can get stressed. Exactly like our bosses chasing us at office !!

You need to remove the big fishes from your tank and put them in a seperate quarentine tank for 2-3 days. At the same time treat your actual tank with anti-stress liquid, and add a bubble stone for more oxygen and circulation. After 3 days add back the big fishes back in their old tank (thus they will become newcomers and would not act as bully) and do not forget to add some hiding places like rocks and plants for your smaller guys to take refuge in case if wild west starts again..

But do not worry, this is a natural phenomena..

Answer 2

If they're losing their color, then they're stressed. Probably from as you stated the bigger fish constantly chasing them, and if they're not getting enough food. Consider returning them, get another tank, or get a tank divider until they can get large enough. You don't say what kind of fish they are, I know with cichlids that get territorial/aggressive, you can rearrange the tank decorations/plants. Sometimes that'll help. Another thing that sometimes works with cichlids, drop the water temperature down(very very slowly) to about 76 F. Also check your water parameters to make sure they're good.

Answer 3

You need to separate them from the bigger fish for awhile until the bigger fish get used to them being in the tank. (have a smaller tub thing in the tank to place the smaller fish)

The big fish are chasing them around trying to prove they're the boss.

Answer 4

ur fish might not be compatible...dont feed them too much, that is one of the main killers of fish, you might try some chemical from the store that helps diseases, and that protects fish with a slime coating. good luck, i have fish myself, they are fun!! remember, dont overfeed, honestly, i feed my fish only every other day at the most, and i have had them for over a year +a half!

Answer 5

seperate them first and also make sure your tank is clean and your water is the right temp.