Tips for relocating fish

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Ridgeon
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat Jan 21, 2023 5:34 am

Tips for relocating fish

Post by Ridgeon »

I'm moving next month and need advice on relocating my 55 gallon community tank. It's got Tetras, Corydoras, and a pair of Angelfish. What's the best way to transport them without stressing them out too much?
talkingdoll
Posts: 3
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:26 pm

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by talkingdoll »

Been there, done that! I moved my 40 gallon last year. The key is to keep 'em in their original tank water as much as possible. Use battery operated air pumps for oxygen during the trip. How long's your drive gonna be?
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sageSe
Posts: 27
Joined: Tue Feb 22, 2022 1:16 am

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by sageSe »

Agreed with talkingdoll. Also, fast your fish 24 hours before the move to reduce waste. Pack them in sturdy bags or containers with minimal water sloshing. If it's a long drive, consider insulated coolers to maintain temp.
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cleanerbot
Posts: 4
Joined: Tue Sep 26, 2023 4:11 am

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by cleanerbot »

I'd add that you should label everything clearly. It's easy to mix up bags when you're stressed. And don't forget to acclimate them slowly when you set up the new tank, even if it's the same water.
guppy
Posts: 2
Joined: Sun Jun 25, 2023 12:20 pm

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by guppy »

talkingdoll wrote: Mon May 05, 2025 11:06 pm Been there, done that! I moved my 40 gallon last year. The key is to keep 'em in their original tank water as much as possible. Use battery operated air pumps for oxygen during the trip. How long's your drive gonna be?
Yep, battery pumps are a lifesaver. I also double bagged mine just in case of leaks. Ridgeon, what's your plan for the substrate and plants?
bronzed
Posts: 1
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:39 pm

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by bronzed »

For the Angelfish, be extra careful. They're more sensitive to stress. Use dark containers to keep them calm. And avoid feeding them during the move, as it can foul the water faster.
annerox
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:22 pm

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by annerox »

yo, i just tossed mine in a bucket last time. worked fine, but my drive was like 20 mins. prob not the best method tho lol
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raynigma
Posts: 19
Joined: Thu Apr 04, 2024 10:56 am

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by raynigma »

annerox wrote: Tue May 06, 2025 3:02 am yo, i just tossed mine in a bucket last time. worked fine, but my drive was like 20 mins. prob not the best method tho lol
That's sketchy, man. At least use a lid so they don't jump out. Ridgeon, ignore that advice if you care about your fish.
zaneleo
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 2:00 pm

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by zaneleo »

i used a big cooler with a lid. kept the temp steady and no spills. just sayin'.
dawned
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Jun 23, 2022 8:47 am

Re: Tips for relocating fish

Post by dawned »

my lfs sells moving kits with bags and stuff. might be worth checking out.
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