Bloat?? HELP!

Bentonb · Jun 15, 2012

I think my clownfish might have bloat...? I've heard of it happening in fresh water fish (betas) but never in salt water. He's unable to really swim down, he seems to float up at the top (still swimming) but like he's full of air?? I don't know what to do??? just wait it out? or what? please help!

Lateral72 · Jun 15, 2012

How long have you had this fish?

Bentonb · Jun 15, 2012

about a week

Bentonb · Jun 15, 2012

he was just fine until this evening

Daimyo68 · Jun 15, 2012

A little more info could help:

Any other fish suffering/showing signs of being sick?
Water parameters?
Added any new fish lately?

It sounds like Swim Bladder, which can be caused due to a "blockage" or baterial infection. Have you seen the clown poop lately? If not, you could try taking a pea (yes a green pea) dicing it up and see if the fish will eat it. This will help to relieve any blockage since it is a natural laxative. If the fish starts to return to normal, then keep with the pea until he's healthy again and able to swim normally.

Also, if there are other fish in the system, keep an eye on them.

Bentonb · Jun 15, 2012

no, perfect (maybe a little bit of nitrate) and no, can I get a pea tomorrow?

Bentonb · Jun 15, 2012

I just used some phyto for the first time yesterday.... could that be it?

Daimyo68 · Jun 15, 2012

The sooner the better for trying a pea.

Hold off on the phyto, although I don't believe that would cause an issue unless it is outdated/bad.

Also I'll rephrase my response above: if you do see that the fish poops and is starting to return to normal after a couple days, then stop feeding for a few days and keep a close eye on it. They will be fine without eating for a few days, and it will give the sick fish some time to get rid of the rest of whatever bound him up in the first place.