Clown lying on side -> Trying to swim down

The lights are off, but I can still see him from the ambient light from the other room.

 

lights off this whole time?

 

LIghts have been off for about an hour. Its 9.30pm in Australia.

 

your first post was about 2 hrs ago =P

It's 4:31 AM in California =P

I have a clown that sleeps at the bottom and lays on it's side at the bottom it's the female and truthfully she builds her self a little nest in the sand... more like a little pit or ditch she'll flurry against the sand pushing it out of the way till she can fit in the little groove she's made. Then she'll lie nearly motionless on her side in that little spot unless a snail or crab disturbs her then she chases them out.

You can keep watching if you like but I'd recommend spending an hour or so away from the tank and check back in later... It's possible the clown is just adapting a new sleeping habit as they can and will do. Like I said before they are odd ball fish and their favorite past time is to give their owners a heart attack every once in a while to keep ya on your toes...

If it's just a screwy fish it will be fine in the mornin. If not then I am truly sorry mate... With out signs of ich or any strange markings it's just too hard for me to tell.

 

Thanks alot for the advice. I will check back in the morning at breakfast time and hope its all good.

P.S GO TO BED!!! hahaha.

 

IF I went to sleep now I'd likely get fired from work =P I'm a Night Auditor at a hotel =P

 

One common thing that can cause floating/downward swimming, is damage to or infection of the swim bladder. Look around google and see if that sounds like the behavior you are seeing.

How long have you had them?

 

I have had them for about 2 months.

The little guy actually survived the night. And hes still swimming down, and seems to be floating up often.

I think you are right that theres an issue with his swim bladder.

He was lucky enough to eat some food this morning which is reallly good.

How do I fix this swim bladder? Is there a way?

 

I'm rooting for the little guy! I just read this post.....let us know how he is...

 

If it's an infection, I've used Furan-2 with good success. I've heard of tapping it with a needle, but I have never entertained the idea.

A couple I've keep in critter containers so that they could rest without having to work so hard staying below the surface. They may pin themselves between some rocks to try and accomplish this as well. I'm sure they're expending a lot of energy to maintain their position.