Unhappy Mala. Wolf

[Slippery K]

Do you all suppose it could be possible that Chompers is behaving in this new, more lethargic manner because the increase in space actually makes him less stressed? After all, Johnny did say that the only change in the decor of the tank was the removal of the divider. It seems plausible that the fish is in fact less stressed now because he has more space to roam, which allows him to settle down and be comfortable. It is also known that a stressed fish can become quite aggressive and will eat more than a calm comfortable fish.

Thoughts?

I would agree with those who posted before me that reducing the light in the tank would probably be appreciated by this guy regardless.

Chicx, are you saying the behavior change could possibly be just that the owner was used to seeing him behaving a certain way? Now that he has more space, his attitude has changed to match the extra room?

Just to clarify.

 

[Chicxulub]

Chicx, are you saying the behavior change could possibly be just that the owner was used to seeing him behaving a certain way? Now that he has more space, his attitude has changed to match the extra room?

Just to clarify.

That is indeed the theory I propose.

 

[lix.ma14]

Chomper IS indeed a common wolf fish (Hopalias Malabaralicus). Anyways, I think the wolf is just a bit stressed out. Give him a hiding caving and don't turn the lights too often especially this week.

 

[lix.ma14]

Do you all suppose it could be possible that Chompers is behaving in this new, more lethargic manner because the increase in space actually makes him less stressed? After all, Johnny did say that the only change in the decor of the tank was the removal of the divider. It seems plausible that the fish is in fact less stressed now because he has more space to roam, which allows him to settle down and be comfortable. It is also known that a stressed fish can become quite aggressive and will eat more than a calm comfortable fish.

Thoughts?
I would agree with those who posted before me that reducing the light in the tank would probably be appreciated by this guy regardless.

ya i think the wolf is more laid back now.

 

[RampageRR]

Hard to say. I know with serrasalmus species, many are more aggressive in smaller tanks. The theory is that they're more secure feeling in the smaller tank so they are more outgoing. I've seen this firsthand with some of my serras, much more aggressive and outgoing in a smaller tank and timid/corner hiding in a larger tank. I can't say for sure that's what causes it, but it does make sense to me.

 

[aldiaz33]

What was on the other side of the divider?

 

[johnnytaboo]

Interesting.... so he actually might be LESS comfortable in a large tank? He's a wolf fish, so I never really thought about it, but would tank mates change anything? What about a school of dithers? Something expendable, like neons or tiger barbs?

also, his previous roommate, on the other half of the divider, was an electric catfish.... It was a fun tank to feed.

 

[Chub_by]

Do you all suppose it could be possible that Chompers is behaving in this new, more lethargic manner because the increase in space actually makes him less stressed? After all, Johnny did say that the only change in the decor of the tank was the removal of the divider. It seems plausible that the fish is in fact less stressed now because he has more space to roam, which allows him to settle down and be comfortable. It is also known that a stressed fish can become quite aggressive and will eat more than a calm comfortable fish.

Interesting thought, but what makes me doubt is the fact that he seems to have no appetite.. Not just less.

OP, was the current from the filters return pump more or less with the divider?

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[RampageRR]

Interesting.... so he actually might be LESS comfortable in a large tank? He's a wolf fish, so I never really thought about it, but would tank mates change anything? What about a school of dithers? Something expendable, like neons or tiger barbs?
...

Yes, it's definitely possible. It's also possible he's only uncomfortable temporarily since you just changed it up recently. I'd personally add some peaceful dithers that will show him it's safe in there and that will eat in front of him. That may help him become more active. Use less expensive fish for this, so when he eats them you're not bummed out.

 

[johnnytaboo]

Interesting thought, but what makes me doubt is the fact that he seems to have no appetite.. Not just less.
OP, was the current from the filters return pump more or less with the divider?

Before the wall was taken down, the tank was filtered by an Aquatop CF500UV and a penguin bio-wheel 350. Currently the tank is filtered by an FX5 and an Aquaclear 110.... so I suppose there's significantly more current than there used to be.

Yes, it's definitely possible. It's also possible he's only uncomfortable temporarily since you just changed it up recently. I'd personally add some peaceful dithers that will show him it's safe in there and that will eat in front of him. That may help him become more active. Use less expensive fish for this, so when he eats them you're not bummed out.

LOL. That was the plan. Neons it is.