dying fish

i am new to the hobby. i have recently lost 2 tiger barbs, and getting ready to lose more. they either have swim bladder or nitrite poisoning. they swim unbalenced, wont eat anything, and gasp for air at the surface. all the other fish seem to be doing ok. except a chinese algae eater, who acts a little funny. thanks for any help!

 

How long have you had these tiger barbs? Have you check your nitrates? Water changes lately?

 

the first 2 i had for about 3 weeks, the 3 that i am getting ready to lose i have had for about 5 days. i have checked my nitrites and did have some. i am using amquel plus to keep them down.

 

have you checked your ammonia and nitrite which is much more toxic to the fish than nitrates? Also do you have enough oxygenation/water flow? Do a 50% water change if levels are high. Also check your pH!

 

[quote author=zach85 link=board=Freshwater;num=1108265336;start=0#2 date=02/12/05 at 23:00:26]i have checked my nitrites and did have some. [/quote]

You have nitrites? Or do you mean nitrates?

How often are you feeding them?
How long did you acclimate the fish?

 

The best way to save your fish is to change 30% of the tank water everyday! That will dillute all the posions in your tank. If you ever have sick fish I reccomend going to this page: http://www.aquariumfish.net/information/recommended_treatment.htm#top2
and follow the instructions. Slowly but surely, your fish are very likely to get better.