Beginner Aquarium Information

• Improper acclimation to new habitat
• Poor water quality (i.e. ammonia, nitrite, nitrate)
• Improper water chemistry (pH, hardness, alkalinity) and temperature
• Improper Diet
• Improper habitat - lack of cover, hiding places
• Aggression from other fish
• Sudden environmental changes
• Lights on 24 hours a day
  
  

• Compromises Immune System - When fish are stressed, their immune systems are weakened. This makes them more susceptible to diseases.
• Inhibits Feeding Response - When fish are stressed, they are usually not interested in eating.
• Shortens Lifespan - diverting energy to counter chronic stress means fish have less energy in reserve to stay healthy.
• Inhibits Growth and Development - Chronically stressed fish have less energy for growth and proper development.
• Mutes Colors - Putting on bright colors requires energy and stressed fish may not have enough energy reserves to devote to color.
• Affects Behavior - Stressed fish may hide, swim nervously or dart about the aquarium risking injury to themselves or other tank mates. They may even try to escape by jumping out of the aquarium!

Here are some signs your fish may be stressed:

• Little or no appetite
• Physical injuries, torn fins
• Hiding behind objects or laying on the bottom of the tank
• Remaining motionless, nose up in an upper corner of the aquarium
• Loss of color
• Rapid breathing, gasping at the surface