CARBON DIOXIDE POISONING
What is it?
The condition is caused by a lack of oxygen in the water and too much carbon dioxide. It occurs usually in overcrowded tanks that do not contain much (if any) plants. It may also occur in aquariums with plants if the plants do not have a light and never see sunlight.

It may occur if water conditions are poor.

This is one ailment that arises from the dreaded fish bowl. Water collects oxygen at the surface, which the fish need to live. The surface area of bowls in NOT sufficient to supply enough oxygen for fish to live. Air stones and plant may help, but as a rule stay away from bowls!

Symptoms:
Listlessness, browning of gill areas, rapid respiration (fast breathing) and lethargy.

Cure:
Improve aeration by including an air stone, including plants and throwing away your bowl if you use one! . Use your aquarium light more often to improve photosynthesis in plants. Perform weekly water changes, as this puts more oxygen into the water and keeps the water free of ammonia and other toxins. Just be sure to use a water purifier. A Dissolved Oxygen testing kit is available, and with this you can test if the amount of oxygen is sufficient. If it is fine, the symptoms may be an indication of something else such as poisoning.



Remember, water quality is always extremely important- so always check that first as it is often the cause of disease in aquarium fish. When treating sick fish, try to put the least amount of stress on them as possible, as stress will hinder the heeling process. Another thing is to remember is that generally, a healthy fish is a happy fish.

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