cindyp303

I have 6 Clown Loaches and 3 of them are acting really weird... there at the top of the tank with there nose out of the water all other fish is doing fine its just the 3 loaches
they look like they are having a really hard time getting up there and staying up there
Anyone know whats going on? this is the firs time ive ever had them

aquarist48

Hello Cindy and Welcome to Fish Lore. According to your aquarium information you have just started your tank and you are unaware of the nitrogen cycle. (see link below)
The Aquarium Nitrogen Cycle <--crucial to fish keeping.

The Nitrogen Cycle is the break down of ammonia, nitrites and nitrates that is from fish waste and fish food. To find out where your cycle stands you should have a test kit, API (liquid) Master Test Kit is most recommended. It contains everything you need to test for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates and pH levels.

I recommend doing a 30 to 50% water change and adding a product called "Prime" or "Amquel +" to detox the ammonia that is in your tank now (more than likely). Your fish are probably suffering from ammonia poisoning since your tank isn't cycled. The Prime or Amquel + will detox the ammoina for the 24 hour period until it is time for your next water change. You need to continue with the water changes until you have test readings of 0 ammonia, 0 nitrites and 5-20 nitrates.

I know this is a lot of information coming to you all at once but it's necessary to keep your fish alive. Too, I'm giving you a link about Clown Loaches.
Clown Loach Coloration & Marking Variations — Loaches Online


Best of luck.
Ken

cindyp303

we are getting a test kit in tuesday tey store was out of them i was given these to put in the water Water Ager CN : it says on the bottle instant chlorine , chloramine , Ammonia & heavy Metals Neutraliser + slime coat and the other bottle i was given is
Amtrite Down : the bottle says Ammonia/nitrite Reduction aerobic Bacteria


so should i take some water out now and should i put any stuff in it

aquarist48

Hello Cindy. I would go ahead with a water change and add the Amtrite Down to detox the ammonia, use enough to treat the entire tank once your water change is complete. I'm not familiar with the products you've mentioned by name. Also use the Water Ager CN in the "new" water to remove the chlorine and heavy metals prior to it going into your tank.
I'm glad you have a test kit on the way. I would continue with the water changes daily until you get your test kit to see exactly where you stand.
Wishing you and your fish the best.
Ken