hammerhead

did my first water change & lost al most all my fish. so im back up & runing now & afraid to do a water change again. not sure if i need one. i have 3 silver dollars,2 angelfish,4 platys, and 1 lonely goldfish. do i need to buy a test kit.

hockeyref88

Hi and welcome. Did you use dechlorinator??

Lucy

Hi hammerhead, Welcome to Fish Lore

You most definitely need a test kit. Most here agree the API mater kit is the most reliable. Don't waste you money on the strips.

It would be helpful to know what your readings are for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates.
If all fish were added at the same time, you may have upset the cycle. I'd bet your ammonia levels are up.

When you changed your water, did you use a water conditioner?

Was the water approximately the same temp that you removed from the tank?

I would consider moving the goldfish, they are really only compatible with other gold fish and need at least a 20g to themselves, they are huge waste producers.

Good luck with your tank.

COBettaCouple

Welcome to Fishlore.

You'll want an API master freshwater kit for sure. If possible, a seperate tank for your goldie as they are better off at cooler water temps than the tropical fish like.