Unexpected death

[june2000]

Both otos are dead on Sat and Sun each. They have been hard workers for us over 7 months. (They have been in 10G for 5 months and in 36G over 2 months.)

Recently, they have been parked around heater for a while though.
They were pale and almost white when we found their death.

The followings are the information.
--------------------------------
Water Parameter: 0, 0, < 5
Temp: 78F
PWC: 40% (Every Fri. night)
Recent Change: We change the heater from Aqueon 200W to ViaAqua Titanium 200W at the last Friday.

One of neon started to hide for a couple of days, too. I can't find any other noticeable sign disease.

Is the change of heater the root cause of this sudden tragedy?
Is there anything which we have to worry about?

 

[Mokomon]

I'm so sorry

 

[Rbishop]

Had they been eating well...sure they had enough food?

 

[Kashta]

So sorry for your loss.

 

[ct-death]

I would rule out the heaters if the new one was working properly, and there have not bene any fluctuations.

After 7 months, clearly the had acclimated in and had found their routine and food sources. If you hadn't changed any diet or feeding routine I would rule this out as well.

One more question, before I finish my thought: You changed the heater - why? Did the old one fail? Did you recently, undergo a change in the aquascape, or do a heavy "Spring-Cleaning" of the tank recently, etc.???

As for Otos, they are very hard to keep. Once acclimated though I find them to be quite hardy. However, that said, most of mine live about 1 to 2 years max...

I think it is simply due to the increadible stress placed upon them during capture. The methods employed often cause perminent damage to their internal organs, which I believe may lead ot premature deaths

Sorry for your loss...

 

[pinkertd]

Sorry for your loss.

 

[sue711]

Sorry about your otos.

 

[Cerianthus]

all parameter seems perfect. Other than new heater, have you ever check your pH after loss before water changes, regardless of their adaptability. At least checking may avoid possible problems for others,imo.