For some reason, I can't use regular tap water for my aquarium. So, I decided to go purchase a water conditioner that was suppose to rid the water of chlorine as well as chloramine. I follow the directions just as it says, but every time I add my goldfish to the water they immediately die. I have tried to allow them to get used to the water by slowly introducing the treated tap water, but they are still dying. So, I tried a different brand of the water conditioner with my fish and my goldfish just went straight to the bottom of the tank. It was still breathing, but it was acting very strangely. So, I just decided to take it out and put it into water that I bought from the store. Then it started back swimming normally. What could be the problem? It is getting very expensive having to purchase 4-5 gallons of water per week. What am I doing wrong?
2007-05-20 20:03:33 · 4 answers · asked by ? 3 in Pets ➔ Fish
If you're adding the proper dose of the conditioner, there must be another problem. Especially if the fish recover when they're put into store water. Is the store near enough to you that you have the same water source (if you're both on a public water supply)? Or you on a well that may get high iron or sulfur (or other chemicals) in the water?
I'd advise having the water in your tank AND your tap water tested (by you or your fish store). There may be a problem with the pH of your tapwater, or the tank may be building up too much ammonia or nitrite if this is something less than a few months old.
2007-05-20 21:35:15 · answer #1 · answered by copperhead 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Are you just dumping them in? Try leaving them in a bag, and putting the bag in the water for fifteen minutes. Then get a net and take the fish out of the bag and put 'em in.
How long do you let the water sit? Try using a filter if you don't, that may be why they are dying. I myself prefer the carbon filters.
Try letting the water sit for awhile with no fish, just a filter. The tank should get cloudy, which is a normal and good sign- it's a biofilter! After this happens, you can buy some cheap feeder fish to test it out. If they live for awhile, you are good to go!
2007-05-21 03:14:02 · answer #2 · answered by Fiveohfive 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't think the water conditioner disposes the chlorine from the water. Instead, use anti-chlorine substances. Try checking and asking Chemical Engineers and Vets.
2007-05-21 03:10:21 · answer #3 · answered by Rayvier 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
How many fish? How big is the tank? Is it filtered? My guess is too many fish in too small of a tank, which results in ammonia poisoning.
2007-05-21 09:15:19 · answer #4 · answered by Democrat with 5 Guns 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋