Home· FAQs·Why does my fish keep keep glass surfing?
“Glass surfing” is when a fish – such as betta fish, gouramis, and cichlids – repeatedly swims up and down along the tank walls. It could be caused by stress, boredom, defense of territory, and other reasons. While there is no guaranteed cure for this behavior, many hobbyists have tried covering or painting the tank walls in black to reduce reflection, increasing flow with apowerhead, decreasing flow with a sponge filter, blocking their favorite corner with tall decorations or plants, adding tannins to the water withcatappa leavesto decrease visibility, feeding different kinds of live foods for them to hunt, and adding other forms of enrichment.
Note: In some cases, the glass surfing is not always a negative sign of stress. Pygmy corydoras have been known to hang out next to their reflections because they are a schooling fish and they are comforted by being near their "new friends."
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FAQs
Fish exhibit many behaviors that tell us how they are feeling, and glass surfing (also known as pacing) is one of them. This is when fish constantly swim up and down the sides of the aquarium glass. One reason they do this is stress. It could mean they aren't happy in their environment, for one reason or another.
How do I stop my fish from glass surfing? ›
To prevent this behavior, you can provide plenty of hiding places and decorations in the tank for the fish to explore. You can also reduce the amount of light in the tank, as too much light can cause the fish to become stressed and start glass surfing.
Why is my betta fish always glass surfing? ›
Glass surfing is a sign of stress in betta fish and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as temperature fluctuations, overcrowding, and poor water quality. To help ease Mia's stress, it's important to keep her tank clean and maintain the water parameters within their ideal range.
What does it mean when a fish keeps going to the surface? ›
When the oxygen levels drop, fish swim to the surface water. Oxygen levels can drop quickly during the summertime, especially if the water is still and not moving. Shallow ponds may get enough movement from the wind or small water features, but deeper and larger ponds need constant circulation.
What does ammonia poisoning in fish look like? ›
Symptoms of Ammonia Poisoning
The fish will become listless and sit at the bottom of the tank motionless. They will have no desire to eat food or even attempt to forage for food. Other symptoms are red streaking on the body and through all of the rays on fins and the eyes of the fish may go cloudy due to ammonia burn.
How to know if fish is stressed? ›
If your fish is swimming frantically without going anywhere, crashing at the bottom of his tank, rubbing himself on gravel or rocks, or locking his fins at his side, he may be experiencing significant stress. Talk to your veterinarian about treatment and look into what may be causing the stress and alleviating it.
Does tapping on glass bother fish? ›
The same noise level in the air could lead to serious hearing damage over time. And fish have it even worse: since the sound pressure is four times higher under water than it is in the air, a good portion of deaths in public aquarium can be traced back to repeated tapping on the glass.
How do I make my fish not bored? ›
4 ways to help fish boredom
- Invest in the right tank. While they may look small to our eye, fish still need plenty of room to swim about in. ...
- Make sure you have plenty of fish tank accessories. ...
- Provide them with the right company. ...
- Spend time with your fish.
This behavior can also be caused by fish fighting. Make sure another fish is not harassing the distressed fish. If this is not the case, test the water levels for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, high pH, and incorrect temperature.
Do fish get bored? ›
Just like any other pet, fish can become bored, too. And while they won't chew up your shoes, keeping them occupied will ensure they live a healthier life.
'New tank syndrome' is commonly experienced in the first weeks of a new aquarium and is caused by an immature filter and excess waste. New Tank Syndrome refers to the problems that can arise in an aquarium when there is a build-up of invisible, toxic compounds.
How do I oxygenate my fish tank? ›
Water Movement: Stagnant water has low oxygen, so aquarium water must be agitated or moved regularly to maintain adequate oxygen. Filters help increase oxygen because they move water, so make sure your current filter is operating at full capacity. A clogged filter must be cleaned or replaced.
Why is my fish staying still? ›
Listlessness: If your fish seem tired and lethargic, it can be as a result of many factors. One common cause is improper water temperature. If your fish's water is too hot or too cold, they will be very inactive. Check your heater and verify that your aquarium is at the right level.
