Tank occupants only inhabit one side of tank

[sajica]

Hello,
is it normal fish would all just hang in the same side of the tank always?

I have a 48x18x20 containing 3 T meeki, 1m and 1f nicaraguensis and 7 columbian tetras and all under 6 inches.
Ive checked the temp at both ends of tank and consistent in the 24C range. I have a power head for movement but it is very gentle. Nitrates are close to 20ppm.

All fish eat well and showing no signs of stress or fighting. Tank decor is also very similar at each end with plenty areas for territory. The side they occupy Is also the most exposed to people walking past the tank.

Its just odd. When people see the tank they always say why do they all like to stay at the one end...

 

[tlindsey]

Is the power head on the same side? If not unplug the power head and see what happens.

 

[jonclark96]

My guess is that is the side of the tank you feed from, so when they see you come in the room, they are looking for food. That's what happens in my 180 in my living room. Anybody who walks by is seen as a potential source of food!

 

[Gourami Swami]

^ this could very well be the case J jonclark96
Any sunlight on the tank at any point? Maybe the fish don't like the brighter light (even could be reflected from a wall, etc) and have learned that the other side of the tank is more exposed.
Another thought is stray voltage; if there are electronics on the side that they avoid, try unplugging them, maybe somethign is leaking electricity into the water and it is stronger on that side.

 

[A201]

You might try rearranging the hardscape, dimming the lights & start feeding on the vacant side.
Is it possible a dominant fish is causing the problem.

 

[Kelly_Aquatics]

Is one side more heavily decorated or planted?

 

[mr72country]

Pictures obviously needed haha

 

[sajica]

Thanks all, I do feed mostly from that same side. I also have a heater on each side so will try unplugging the heater than the power head. Thanks for the suggestions