Fish dying

[Bob Santos]

just set up a new seawater aquarium with corals. After 5 days my fish are dying and the water became very cloudy? What can be the reason. How do I rectify that. It seems that the fishes are gasping for air before they die. They float at the top of the water and seems gasping and then minutes later they die. Please help.

 

[Lowstorm]

It sounds like you set up the tank but didn't cycle it properly, and now its decided to cycle. The cloudy water is from bacteria-I'm not sure what type of bacteria and what its eating, so you need to get some test kits. The basics for this type of emergency is ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. PH and temp readings would help also.

How old is the tank, what all did you put in it? Live rock, dead rock, sand, etc. Need the details

 

[Bob Santos]

It's a new 20g aquarium. I placed some live rocks, corals and bought salt water.

What filter is advisable or any other mechanism that I need?

What kind of chemicals do I need ?

Thanks.

 

[_Conway]

When did you set it up.
Do you have test kits for amonia nitrite and nitrate

 

[eliramos]

if you just set up the tank and its only been 5 days your tank isn't even close to being cycled. you need to do daily water changes until you can get your chemicals in order.
we need more details on your tank
filtration?
how many days have you had it.
salt, ammonia, nitrate etc levels

 

[Lowstorm]

Alright! To the basics.

First, do not buy more fish or corals to replace what is about to die. If you can, please return everything.
You will have to go through the nitrogen cycle. This period of time takes a few weeks to a few months of just sitting there, staring at a tank with rocks and sand. And waiting. Its a great time to do research! At the top of this forum, there's a bunch of info on how to cycle a tank. I suggest to read, read, and read some more. Its all explained

 

[MarkDarnell]

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.138750/

 

[jman9331]

Yikes, poor fishies. I always hate it when this happens, Research is the biggest thing and even experienced reefers still learn something new. Please click and read the link that was provided above trust me when i started it let me know everything I would expect during the first stages. biggest thing with this hobby is patience, and remember we are always here to assist. Happy reefing!!

 

[melypr1985]

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.138750/

^^^ Read this. Great info! Will walk you through the entire process of setting up and cycling a saltwater tank.