Top tips to avoid unexplained fish tank deaths

By taking some simple steps, people could reduce the chances of unexplained deaths among their fish.

Unfortunately for fishkeepers, unexplained deaths among the fish in their aquarium can sometimes be an issue they are unable to tackle.

However, as Practical Fishkeeping explains, there are some problems enthusiasts can look out for to try and prevent or at least reduce the chances of this happening.

The website acknowledged that new tank syndrome is a common problem that many inexperienced fishkeepers encounter if they introduce fish into tanks where the nitrogen cycle has not been given time to properly establish itself.

But old tank syndrome - also known as old test kit syndrome - can also cause issues. Although people will no doubt be aware of the need to test their tanks regularly to ensure the water is not polluted and the fish are happy, they may not realise the kits do not last forever and once they have been opened the contents oxidise and make readings inaccurate.

As well as allowing nitrate to build up, this can also mean the water becomes more acidic without the owner realising, thus causing the fish to die. People may be able to eliminate this problem by purchasing new aquarium test kits.

"Replace liquid kits periodically and, if a result looks too good to be true, it probably is," Practical Fishkeeping stated.

It is also important for people to take good care of their aquarium cleaning equipment, the website continued. If items such as a bucket are used for other household tasks, poisonous substances can accidentally be introduced to a tank, killing fish.

"Cleaning products are riddled with surfactants like sodium laureth sulfate which is lethal to fish," it explained, while just a tiny amount of soap can do a great deal of harm if it gets into an aquarium.

The website recommends that fishkeepers purchase a dedicated bucket and brushes, as well as more specialist equipment such as an algae scraper to keep their tank clean.

Posted by Sean Alexander
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Monday, 9 Jan 2012, 4:44pm