I have three black phantom tetras in a 10 gallon tank, but everytime I approach the tank they all hide in a corner behind a ceramic ornament. I've had one of the tetras for three years and the others for 1-2. They will come out if I feed them, but they eat better if I walk away from the tank and watch them at a distance. Is there anyway I can gradually make the less timid?
2007-08-08 13:58:43 · 6 answers · asked by Rhea 5 in Pets ➔ Fish
Yup to above, most species are schoolers, but you've already had them for a few years so I don't think thats the issue. I think the issue is the noise and this HUGE object they see, HUGE compared to them, and they aren't secure enough to just come out. For all they know, that's a predator comming after them. I wouldn't stress it much as fish are not like a dog and cat where you can directly train them to do things. As long as they are growing, not fighting or sick, they happy, just sneak back away, walk slow so they don't feel the vibrations as much and smile :)
If you need further help and advanced answers, check out fishless cycling.com or just use the link on my profile.
JV
2007-08-08 14:09:02 · answer #1 · answered by I am Legend 7 · 3⤊ 1⤋
Well tetras are schooling fish, and in a larger school they are much less timid. So I would recommend getting 2 more black phantom tetras. Plus some more plants. You can get live or plastic, I personally like plastic because even though I can keep my fish healthy; my plants just die and are a lot of work it seems. Make a nice thick/tall layer at the back and a medium hight layer on the sides that also is pretty thick. Get around 3 small plants and just stick them in the front somewhere. Do you only have one ceramic ornament in the tank? If so, I would recommend getting a piece of driftwood or fake driftwood at your LFS (local fish store) or at a Petsmart or Something. So with the additional plants to hide in, driftwood to swim behind, and 2 more fishy friends your fish should be a lot less timid. Plus your tank would look really nice. I basically had the same problem except I had 3 neons in a 29 gallon, I got 5 more neons and a bunch of plants and there was a major change in their attitude. Hope this helps!!
Good Luck!!!
2007-08-09 04:37:08 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I might be wrong, but I believe tetras are schooling fish. Which means that they feel more secure in larger groups. I don't know how many fish you have in that 10 gallon tank, but if you can increase their numbers that would definitely help. Also, as weird as it may sound, adding more hiding places also helps to bring them out. If they have more places they can hide then they will feel more secure and be confident about coming out in the open. In the end, though, you might just have nervous fish that run and hide whenever you come around, and there's nothing you can do about that! All fish have their own personalities! LOL
2007-08-08 14:04:40 · answer #3 · answered by Donna 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They will be less timid if kept in larger groups. Try adding 2 more of the same species. Also, tall plants and subdued lighting will make them feel more secure. If you need any more help with the Phantoms, check out the link in my profile.
Nosoop4u
2007-08-08 14:07:06 · answer #4 · answered by nosoop4u246 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No you dont want to put tiger barbs in with your community fish and male guppies. Tiger barbs are aggressive and will not get along with your other fish. You need to house the barbs seperatly if you want tiger barbs. Yeah they will most likely kill and stress out your little guys.
2016-05-17 10:02:14 · answer #5 · answered by bertha 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Buy more tetra, they'll feel safer if theres more of them.
2007-08-09 02:46:51 · answer #6 · answered by Mr. Moonlight 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋