I am new to fish owning. We bought a tank without knowing about cycling. So far most of the fish seem to have survived despite nitrite levels and such. We have had several die though. They all get sucked up against the filter part that sticks down into the tank. How do I prevent this?
Newbie question
- Thread starter Serenmarie
- Start date
rwspear76
American By Birth,Soldier By Choice
Chances are that the fish died before being "sucked up". I'd suggest a good liquid test kit and large water changes until fully cycled. (been there, done that unfortunately 
)
If you know someone else with an established tank, ask them for some old nasty filter media and place it in your's. It will speed things up for you.
)If you know someone else with an established tank, ask them for some old nasty filter media and place it in your's. It will speed things up for you.
I second the fact that it is probably dead or weakened fish are the ones that get sucked. I think the main concern here would be your water quality. Since you are fishy cycling, always monitor your ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Any reading >0 of ammonia and nitrite are toxic (can kill or weaken your fish) and should be reason enough for a water change. (50% - 75% water change.. even 2 to 3 times a day if needed)
Good luck Fishkeeping would be fun once you get through this rough stage.
Good luck
Fishkeeping would be fun once you get through this rough stage.
Good call
And yeah, we gotta know your tank size and filter make and model to help you any further.