I just got an opaline and a gold gourami last night. I think I acclimated them well. The gold is doing great but the opaline can't seem to swim downward without a lot of effort. If it doesn't fight it it just floats right to the top. It's not acting lethargic or anything like that and it's eating ok. Is this a swim bladder problem? Is there anything I can do?
Gourami can't swim down very well
- Thread starter Mace68
- Start date
It is kind of hard to tell, sometimes if they have a build-up of gas in their intestines they can float, if this is the case it will soon pass. If it persists for more than a few days, there is nothing you can do! If you can try and return the fish to the store.
Since it may be an intestinal problem as vato said, you might be able to help "clear things out" by fasting them and/or feeding them roughage such as skinned peas. Take some frozen peas and thaw them in a small glass of tank water for 20-30 minutes or so. Then peel the skins off and feed the fishes little pieces of the peas. This is a good way to clear out the intestines on fish like gourami that are prone to digestive problems. I do this for my danios once a week just to keep them "regular."
Hopefully the troubles will clear up soon -- good luck with your new fishes!
Hopefully the troubles will clear up soon -- good luck with your new fishes!