Frog Fish buoyancy issue

Myke Honcho · Dec 23, 2019

My Histrio histrio has been floating at the surface for almost two weeks now. Right before these symptoms started the tank had a nitrate spike which is now under control. The fish seems perfectly healthy besides the buoyancy issue. Frequently it dashes for the rocks below but quickly floats back to the surface.

I also suspected overfeeding since I keep a handful of grass shrimp in there with him but it has been unable to reach them for a while now. I've been feeding very little just in case it is gas build up from over eating. Its stomach constantly looks a little full even tho it has eaten so little.

Ive heard of nitrate sensitivity with these guys but not much detail on it. Is this the likely culprit or should I be doing anything else for the fish besides keeping the tank healthy? I know this species of frog fish has a swim bladder so could this be a swim bladder disorder?

Auto-pilot · Dec 23, 2019

He has swallowed air, frog fish don't have swim bladders if I am correct

Auto-pilot · Dec 23, 2019

I had a frog fish do this before and I held him with his mouth upward and the air came out. Ig this doesn't work I believe a needle and a syringe will be required to remove the gas from the fish so he can sink to the bottom again

Myke Honcho · Dec 23, 2019

I've tried the burping method. I really hope I don't have to poke him but will keep that in mind. I appreciate the advice.

From what I've read this species does have a swim bladder. In the wild it uses it to float at the surface amongst sargassum seaweed. I think it is the only frog fish to have one.

Auto-pilot · Dec 23, 2019

If he's been like this for a week maybe try antibiotics and try to weigh him down with string and a weight. It that doesn't help his last chance is to poke him.... I'd be scared to but if its that or let him die I'd do it. If you can get clove oil and like 2 drops per gallon you can put the fish to sleep. Then try to release the air carefully