why did my sucky fish died? :(

**Cococatz** · 7th Feb 2010, 20:51

Hello everyone!

I came across this forum after researching for gastromyzon ctenocephalus. I've lost 2 recently. One over christmas when my house mate overfed my tank and switched off the air pump.

One just this morning , I found him at the bottom of the tank - i only bought him yesterday! its really quite upsetting because Ive been looking forward to have it back. I would like to find out the reason why he died, could you guys please give me some pointer?

1. do they need strong current? the air pump's been dropped and its only got 1 blade left, but I still have the water flowing fine, but might not be as strong. (i got a fluval edge tank)

2. the temperture is quite cold (when i put my hand in it hurts) - i got one gold fish in the tank and she seems to be doing fine. but i guess goldfish are just more hardy and they can deal with cold much better than astromyzon ctenocephalus?

I would love to have a astromyzon ctenocephalus back (the one died at christmas i had for more than 4 months) but wouldnt want to kill another one unless I make sure I've provided it with the right condition. is there anything else i should look out for?

any tips would be greatfully received, thank you!

Cococatz

**Fuzzy** · 7th Feb 2010, 21:22

You might want to get a thermometer and tank heater in there. If its cold enough to hurt when you immerse your hand into the tank, its probably way below their comfort zone (68ºF to 75ºF(20-23.8°C)

Also have you tested your water for Ammonia and Nitrites?

**stormhawk** · 9th Feb 2010, 00:58

They do need a current, and some algae on smooth rocks to graze on. See these links on how to set up a proper tank for them, to mimic their natural habitat:

http://www.loaches.com/articles/a-river-runs-through-it
http://www.loaches.com/articles/rive...anifold-design
http://www.loaches.com/articles/hill...-the-fast-lane

The last link is a very detailed article on how to care for Hillstream Loaches in captivity.