URGENT!!!!!

[justonemoretank]

If you had nitrite, then the tank wasn't properly cycled. I am going to suggest something here, and I'm not trying to be mean, or rude, or negative. Many times, when aquarists see that something's wrong with their tank, their first impulse is to run out and buy a chemical. However, most problems in an aquarium can be solved properly without chemicals. A chemical may seem easier, but it's not. It's a band-aid for a problem that needs to be fixed, but is only covered up. Your pH was likely not an issue, and if it was, what you needed to do was buffer your water and then increase pH. If you test now, you'll likely find it as low as it was before, because the water wasn't buffered. However, most fish can deal with most pH levels, as long as those levels are stable. As for nitrite, what you need to do is boost your biological filter and test daily until nitrite is zero. Don't blame it on the water until you have done everything possible to fix the problem, because if it's not the water (and it's likely not) you won't have actually fixed the problem. I know it sounds crazy, but weekly testing and tank maintenance, as well as correct stocking (you never answered this question directly, but I assume the tank was way overstocked, because it overstocked with just the Pacu, nevermind who else was in there) are really what matters in fishkeeping. Not chemicals. Chemicals seem like an easy fix, but the time you invest in your tank is an easier one.

 

[jerzyperson]

i have lost all but my oscar... and 3 goldfish. i feel as if i should quit with fish, even tho i love them. the pacu grew far to big far to fast and i wan't able to control it. the tank was cycled, everything checked out when i stocked it. but recently everything went haywire after the replaced or water system to each house. i did what you guys always recomend first, after a couple weeks of nothing but it gettig worse i panicked and got ich guard, and after i began to treat for ich, everything went downhill.

oh and the tank had 1 pacu in it 3 goldfish and an oscar. the oscar has made it thus far, but im not fully satisfied with the way he is still acting.

 

[justonemoretank]

Have you still not tested? At least do a big water change. There's no need to quit with fish. There is only need to think and research before acquiring your fish. Look, everyone has made mistakes. No one has gotten as far as they have without at least one (or most likely, more). But, you have to be able to look at this and learn, and realize that as much as you enjoy your fish, they need you to be there for them twice as much. Your tank might have been cycled, but it's gone through a lot lately, and that's the reason for weekly testing. This way, you spot things before they become big issues. Just take the time and do it right. Maybe you don't need to keep fish that get huge. I have a whole tank full of one inch fish. There's nothing wrong with a good South American community tank. Don't try to do what's beyond your ability! Just take the time and learn without being in a rush.

 

[jerzyperson]

ok thanks, i feel horrible about my pacu, but i wanted to get rid of it anyway. im not happy he's dead, im just happy that he's not suffering anymore. thanks for trying to help, after i did my 90% water change, all my fish are doing better. so i thank you for that!