POISONING
What is it?
There are many compounds that are poisonous to fish, and there are numerous ways these can enter your aquarium. Poisons can come in through untreated tap water, be produced in the water (see new tank syndrome, ammonia poisoning, nitrite poisoning), come from medications or even cleaning agents are common culprits.

Poisoning can be gradually, or almost instantaneous. In the case of cleaning agents, the fish may die within minutes of being exposed.

Symptoms:
Different poisons may produce different symptoms, however commonly the symptoms consist of:

• Erratic behavior. Swimming madly around, appearing disorientated.
• Scratching up against aquarium objects.
• Gasping for oxygen and fast breathing.
• The fish may hide and appear off colour.
• May just look lethargic, stay at the bottom. This is more common in very toxic substances, or when the fish has been exposed for a long time. The fish may be close to death at this stage.

Cure:
See new tank syndrome, ammonia poisoning, nitrite poisoning if they are suspected. Test for ammonia and nitrite to rule them out.

Change about 50-60% of the water. If your filter can allow for it, add activated carbon. This removes toxins very well. Repeat the water change the next day, but reduce the water change to about 30%. Repeat the water changing of 30% until the fish shows signs of improvement.

Find the source of the toxin and remove it!



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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