AboutLynda Expertise I can help you with cichlids, african cichlids, betta fish. I have bred most of them, including the Discus, and Angel Fish, and Rams. I have also bred many african cichlids. I have bred bettas too...well I am a fish nut! I can help you with most diseases, and have experience in setting up a tank. I can tell you tricks on keeping your water alkaline without products. I also speak and write french. I have experience with salt water fish, but would rather not get into that field.
Please when writing to me, give me detailed information. The size of your tank, your water chemistry, etc. The more I know, the more I can help you. I cannot guess at what you have, so please give me information and I will do my outmost to help you with any question you ask me.
Please do not ask me questions on Goldfish, mollies, platies, and guppies. Lynda
Experience I have worked in Petshops in the fish department...was Manager in two...and alot of my experience came from my home where I had 26 aquariums from 20 gallons to 200 gallons.
Publications I have a MSN group but it has nothing to do with fish
Education/Credentials I have finished high school, and went to college, in accounting
Question Set up a 10 gal. tank in December after consulting FREQUENTLY with the "experts" at the local chain pet store. Began with 3 platys and 3 tetras. Tetras died quickly, despite water being tested as "good". Then one of the 3 original platies died. Replaced it. Died again; 2 original are still swimming to date. The 3rd platy again looks to be on its' way out. For the past week, she has been hovering around the bubbler, appearing to be gasping. Just noticing her scales look sparse on one side. Again, the original 2 platies from December are thriving. Any suggestions? Thank you.
Answer Hi Ginger,
Tetras live in acidic waters 6.5 to 6.8..This could be a reason for their death. The platys could also be something to do with either their water or yours. When fish are brought home we must never put them all in the tank at once as this changes the water chemistry causing death of all fish. You must put in one fish, and wait one week, and check your water, if it is right, add another fish, and wait at least 5 days, check your water again, if all is right, add another fish, and so on. This could also be a reason. Check your ammonia, it should be zero, check your nitrites, it should be zero, and check your nitrates which should be low. Also check your PH, it may be too high for the fish you put in your tank. Make sure it is lower than 7.5 You may have something in your tank that is bringing up the PH. Check to see if they are getting enough oxygen. Your filter should be splashing water into the water of your tank causing movement. An air stone may help. Water changes of 25% every week with a good water conditioner such as "Stress Coat" should be made.
This is all I can see with what you told me.
Lynda
