When Fish Float or Act Strange

Fish can’t cry or bark, but their behavior says a lot. If your fish is floating oddly or staying near the surface, don’t ignore it.

1. Check the water quality first.
Most fish problems start with bad water. Test ammonia, nitrate, and pH levels. Do a 25% water change immediately.

2. Watch for overfeeding.
Uneaten food rots and poisons the tank. Feed once or twice a day, just enough for what they eat in 2–3 minutes.

3. Observe other fish.
If several fish act the same way, it’s likely environmental. If only one looks sick, isolate it.

4. Keep the tank clean.
Change water weekly, clean filters, and remove dead plants. Stability is everything for fish health.

A peaceful, clean tank prevents 90% of fish illnesses — consistency is your best medicine.