Shy Danios

[GERONIMO3000]

My 3 starter danios have suddenly turned shy. They were active for the first 2 weeks but now they’re spending most of the time hiding. Sometimes, they'll re-emerge when the lights are switched off. I don't get it. Water parameters/conditions are at optimal levels, they’re eating and there aren’t any noticeable signs of parasites/disease. Any tips on to solve this situation? Is it simply because they need more company (perhaps 3 more danios)? I plan on getting more...I just don't want to overwhelm the bioload.

 

[Kasakato]

How big of tank, where is the tank located, test levels?

 

[GERONIMO3000]

Thanks, Kasakato. It's a 20g tank that's been active/"live" for 3 wks now. Cycling is underway - ammonia readings have picked up gradually. Here are the current readings:

pH - 7.0

TH - 80ppm
Alk - 80ppm

Ammonia - 0.5 to 1.0ppm
NO2 - 0ppm
NO3 - 0ppm

 

[Kasakato]

Three weeks and only at ammoina? What kind of test kit do you have?

 

[GERONIMO3000]

I'm using the "Lifegard" Ammonia test strips...but maybe I should get the "Tetra Deluxe Laborett" (?)

 

[Holly9937]

amonia is very toxic to fish and may be the reason they are slowing down, ideally you want it at 0, or very close, even during cycling since you have fish in the tank.