Clown Knife with swim bladder problem?

[Valyrian]

I think my clown knife might have a swim bladder problem (that, or he's just dying) because he's always on his side now and he always curls towards his right. The left side is always up with the center being the highest point like an arch. He also seems to have trouble keeping his body straight while swimming.

Is this a swim bladder problem and if it is, how can I fix it?

 

[dodgefreak8]

I have lost 2 royal clown knives and they both did somthing similar. I think its somthing to do with their nervous system. This is just a shot in the dark but are you adding any kind of ammonia remover like prime or ammo lock?

 

[Valyrian]

I use prime as my water conditioner but the last time I added some was with a water change I think 1 or 2 weeks ago not sure exactly.

 

[dodgefreak8]

check all your water parameters. all you can do is wait and give this knife the best water you can give. I wish I could be more help but you can't do much if its neurological or a swim bladder problem. oth are very hard to treat.

 

[Oddball]

It could be a bacterial infection in his swim bladder or GI tract. Do a 30% water change and add a tablespoon of salt per gallon. CKs can really take salt since they can be caught in mild brack waters in FL. I'd also treat the tank with Metronidazole @ 250mg per 20gals. Do a search on 'bloat' and follow the regimen. Keep us up to date on its progress.

 

[dodgefreak8]

you might want to consider adding epsom salt to your water. It acts as a laxative for fish.

 

[Valyrian]

The knife died today

Yesterday it seemed like it might recover because every once in a while it would straighten out and swim upright again and swim to the surface so I thought I would see how it did after a night.