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Question:

My friend gave me his cichlid tropical fish and I am worried about it...when it hides it kinda goes on its side..not completely but its like slanted...im seriously freaking out! I dont know what's normal and whats not!!! He hasn't been eating much either...Im really worried...someone can u please help me??? the waters clean....he seems to me, to be acting weird...but then again...i could be over thinking it all..but I really don't know...can someone help??? please! thanks

Answer 1:

A few things here. Are there other tank mates with it? What size tank is it in? I don't think cichlid tropical fish moving to it's side is anything serious. Generally if this is an African cichild, I've seen this many times, and is usually the beginning of a power struggle with another cichild. From what I am reading I am not thinking this is the case however, but perhaps there is another fish coming around into what it feels is it's territory and is preparing to fight for it. Fish when they first get in a new tank are sometimes shy and take some time to set into their new home. Knowing what species you have will help and a little on your water chemistry. You don't have to take your water in to be tested, you can do it quite easily by yourself. There is nothing magical to that. Test your ammonia, nitrite and nitrate to see how well cycled your tank is. Should be 0 ammonia and nitrite, and some small amounts of nitrate. Check your PH level too. Typically, most cichilds, though not all, prefer and thrive in a higher ph

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Answer 2:

This behavior is completely normal, I've had many cichlid tropical fish and they all do this. As for the eating issue, try feeding him right before you turn off the lights at night. I've found that Cichlids prefer to come out of their dwelling when it's dark. Hope this helps!

Answer 3:

Take your water in to be tested at your local pet store. Though the water may be clean, the pH may be too high or low, or the ammonia could be too high. I had cichlid tropical fish once and I had special cichlid food for them, maybe try that. Also, they are very aggressive fish so be sure not to put fish in with them that are not equally aggressive.

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