Who Gives A Fish Forums

My Clownfish have been gasping at the surface for the past two days. Tank is a 30-gallon with a protein skimmer, salinity at 1.025, temp 78°F. Ammonia and nitrite are zero, nitrate around 10 ppm. They're eating fine but seem stressed. Any ideas what's up?

Sounds like low oxygen levels. What's your surface agitation like? If you're running a skimmer, it should help, but maybe bump up the flow a bit. Also, check if your powerheads are clogged or if the water level's too low for proper skimmer function.

I'd second the oxygen issue. Had the same problem with my Tangs last month. Turned out my return pump was barely moving water. Fixed the flow, and they chilled out in a few hours. Maybe test your dissolved oxygen if you've got a kit.

Yo, my Betta does this all the time, but he's freshwater. Didn't know saltwater fish could pull the same stunt. Maybe they're just drama queens like my guy?

barbsforlife wrote: ↑Tue Sep 16, 2025 12:37 pm Yo, my Betta does this all the time, but he's freshwater. Didn't know saltwater fish could pull the same stunt. Maybe they're just drama queens like my guy?

Different ballgame with saltwater. Could be oxygen, but also check for stray voltage or toxins. Ever used any new meds or cleaners near the tank?

My Firefish did this once when I accidentally overdosed Kalkwasser. Double-check your additives, just in case. Also, how old's your salt mix? Sometimes old salt can mess with things.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna check the powerheads and test dissolved oxygen. Didn't think about the salt mix age—it's been open for like six months. Might grab a fresh batch just to rule it out.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna check the powerheads and test dissolved oxygen. Didn't think about the salt mix age—it's been open for like six months. Might grab a fresh batch just to rule it out.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna check the powerheads and test dissolved oxygen. Didn't think about the salt mix age—it's been open for like six months. Might grab a fresh batch just to rule it out.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna check the powerheads and test dissolved oxygen. Didn't think about the salt mix age—it's been open for like six months. Might grab a fresh batch just to rule it out.