Very timid Clown loaches

[elcano]

I've recently had a little problem with the P.H of my water. The water was coming out of the tap very alkaline (~8) so I solved that by using a little (8-10 drops) of ph-down in each bucket of new water, bringing it to around 7.0 - 7.5 or so.

For the last few weeks my clownies have been hiding in their ceramic log and only coming out for a short period of time before shooting back in. They used to be out and about sniffing around doing what they do best, but no more. They all seem perfectly healthy, although they don't come out long enough to eat, so I fear for their health. I'm not sure if the water p.h problem is the reason for their strange behaviour. :( Although they did it before I started using the P.H down.

There are three Clown loaches. They share the tank with 5 neons, a bala shark, two bristle noses and 3 guppies. The tank is 163 Litres (43 galons).

Any ideas?

Thanks to all in advance!

[Dragon_Lord_Tia]

well stop what your doing and restart what you were before simple as pie they like water at around 8.0

[mogurnda]

Clowns hate changes. They can pout for months. My bet is that they will adapt to the alteration, though. No other changes in the tank?

[OrionGirl]

Have you since tested the waters pH? Often, those products result in a temporary change to the conditions, and the water then bounces back to it's previous level.

I agree though--changes in even lighting can cause some fish to change behavior.

[elcano]

No worries.
I shall leave it as it was and hope things improve.

No other changes have been made to the water or tank.

Also, I just realised my guppies are hanging around the top of the water unlike their usual boysterous behaviour. Could these things be related?

[Dragon_Lord_Tia]

guppys are a top deweling fish but it is most probabley not enough air if you have a powerhead connect a tube to it to create a air current as well

[elcano]

My filter doesnt have the air ability.
I have heaps of plants though.

[Clownloach458]

Yes. Clowns are picky. rearange the tank and theyll hide for days. Mine used to be like that for weeks. now they are out and about. good luck:cool: